The spelling of the word "stomach pump" may seem unusual at first glance. However, if we break it down using IPA phonetic transcription, we can understand it better. "Stomach" is pronounced as /ˈstʌmək/, with the stress on the first syllable. "Pump" is pronounced as /pʌmp/, with a short "u" sound in the first syllable and no stress on any syllable. So, when combined together, we get "stomach pump" pronounced as /ˈstʌmək pʌmp/. This device is used to remove harmful substances from the stomach in emergency medical situations.
A stomach pump is a medical device used to remove the contents of the stomach through a tube inserted via the mouth or nose. It is primarily employed in emergency situations when someone has ingested toxic substances, such as drugs or chemicals, or has swallowed a potentially harmful amount of a substance. The device operates by creating a vacuum that suctions the stomach contents, including the toxic substance, out of the body, preventing its absorption into the bloodstream. This procedure is also known as gastric lavage or gastric suction.
The stomach pump is typically a flexible tube connected to a suction device or a syringe, and it is carefully inserted into the stomach under medical supervision to avoid any injury or complications. The tube is then maneuvered to reach the stomach, and the suction device is activated to extract the contents. The process may sometimes involve the infusion of a liquid, such as water or a saline solution, to help flush out the stomach.
Stomach pumping is generally performed in hospital settings by trained healthcare professionals. It is considered an emergency measure and not a routine medical procedure. The purpose of using a stomach pump is to rapidly remove harmful substances from the stomach to reduce their absorption and minimize the associated health risks.
An apparatus for removing the contents of the stomach by means of suction.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
A small pump with a flexible tube for drawing off liquids from the stomach, or for injecting them.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The term "stomach pump" is a compound word consisting of "stomach" and "pump".
1. "Stomach": The term "stomach" is derived from the Latin word "stomachus" and the Greek word "stomakhos", both of which mean "gullet" or "throat". Over time, the meaning of "stomach" shifted to refer specifically to the organ in the body where food is digested.
2. "Pump": The word "pump" originated from the Middle English word "pompe", which came from the Old French word "pompe". It ultimately traces back to the Latin word "pompa", meaning "a conduit, pipe, or pump". The term evolved to refer to a device used for moving or raising fluids or gases.