Pope Francis remains in critical condition but remains alert, according to the Vatican. In an update on February 24, Manila time, the Vatican says the Pope has not had any more respiratory crisis since February 23, Manila time. But Pope Francis was still receiving high flows of supplemental oxygen. According to the Vatican, some blood tests showed initial mild kidney failure.
However, doctors say it was still under control. The decreased platelet count that was first detected Saturday was likewise stable. Platelets help perform blood clots to stop bleeding or help wounds heal. The Vatican says Pope Francis remains alert and well-oriented. Based on the Vatican's update, the Pope's prognosis or chance of recovery remains guarded.
This is due to the Pope's complex clinical situation and the time needed for treatment to show results. Doctors have warned that the main threat facing Pope Francis is sepsis. Sepsis is a serious infection of the blood that can occur as a complication of pneumonia.
Pope Francis has chronic lung disease and is prone to bronchitis in winter. He was admitted to the hospital on February 14 after a week-long bout of bronchitis worsened.