The spelling of the word "Oximetries" can be explained through its phonetic transcription in IPA as /ɑksiːmətriːz/. The first syllable, "oxi", refers to oxygen and is pronounced as /ɑksi/. The second syllable, "me", is pronounced as /mi/ and refers to measurement. The final syllable, "tries", is pronounced as /triːz/ and is derived from the verb "try". Therefore, "Oximetries" refers to the process of measuring the level of oxygen in the blood using a non-invasive method, such as a pulse oximeter.
Oximetries refers to a method or process used to measure the oxygen saturation levels in the blood. It involves the use of a medical device called an oximeter, which is typically attached to a person's fingertip, earlobe, or other suitable body parts. The oximeter is equipped with sensors that emit light at two different wavelengths, typically red and infrared.
The principle behind oximetries is based on the fact that oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin molecules in the blood absorb light differently at these two wavelengths. By emitting light into the body and measuring the light levels that are transmitted or reflected back, the oximeter can determine the oxygen saturation levels in the blood.
The measurements obtained through oximetries are usually represented as a percentage known as SpO2 (peripheral capillary oxygen saturation). Normal SpO2 levels range between 95% and 100%. This non-invasive method is widely used in medical settings, such as hospitals, clinics, and emergency rooms, to quickly assess a patient's oxygenation status.
Oximetries are crucial in detecting and monitoring various conditions and diseases that affect blood oxygen levels, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, pneumonia, heart failure, and sleep apnea. They are also used during anesthesia and surgical procedures to ensure sufficient oxygen supply to the patient. Additionally, portable oximeters have become increasingly available for personal use at home, allowing individuals with certain health conditions to monitor their oxygen levels regularly.
The term "oximetries" appears to be a plural form derived from the word "oximetry". The etymology of "oximetry" can be broken down as follows:
- "Oxi-" originates from the Greek word "oxys", meaning "sharp" or "acid".
- "-metry" comes from the Greek term "metron", which means "measurement".
Combining these elements, "oximetry" essentially refers to the measurement of sharpness or acidity. Oximetry, in the medical context, specifically denotes the process of measuring oxygen saturation in the bloodstream.