Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
pulse oximetry
Non-invasive monitoring technique that measures oxygen saturation and pulse rate using light absorption.
Full Definition
Pulse oximetry is a continuous, non-invasive method of monitoring oxygen saturation in arterial blood and heart rate. It works by emitting light at two wavelengths through tissue and measuring absorption differences between oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin. This technology is fundamental in respiratory therapy for real-time assessment of oxygenation status. The measurement is expressed as a percentage, with normal values typically above 95% in healthy individuals.
Usage
Usage note: Always lowercase unless beginning a sentence; hyphenate when used as an adjective (pulse-oximetry probe).
In Context
- "The pulse oximetry reading dropped to 88% during the procedure, prompting immediate intervention." — Clinical assessment report
- "Continuous pulse oximetry monitoring is required for all patients receiving supplemental oxygen." — Hospital protocol
Also known as
pulse ox
oximetry monitoring
Don't confuse with
capnometry
transcutaneous monitoring