[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: George H. W. Bush (1991, Book I)]
[May 6, 1991]
[Page 475]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Statement by Press Secretary Fitzwater on the President's Health
May 6, 1991

    At approximately 10:45 p.m. last night, the President resumed his 
normal heart rhythm, which was maintained until 4:45 a.m. this morning, 
at which time atrial fibrillation reoccurred. The attending physicians 
met at 5:30 a.m. this morning for approximately 2 hours to consider the 
situation. It was deemed unnecessary to carry out the electrical 
procedure since the President's response to medication had been 
encouraging. They decided instead to continue further adjustment of his 
medication and maintain observation of the President while working here 
at the White House.
    President Bush will be discharged at approximately 9 a.m. this 
morning and return immediately to the Oval Office. His progress will be 
monitored here as his medication levels and dosages are observed. It 
should be stressed again that there continues to be no evidence of 
organic heart disease.
    Today the President will continue his normal responsibilities and 
activities. He will meet with former Soviet Foreign Minister 
Shevardnadze at 1:30 p.m. and will conduct other business during the 
day.
    The President rose at 5:20 a.m. this morning. He's in good spirits 
and anxious to get back to work. We look forward to having him back in 
the White House very soon.

                    Note: The Press Secretary read the statement to 
                        reporters at 8:38 a.m. in the Briefing Room at 
                        the White House.