In respiratory therapy, what does the term "hypoxemia" refer to?

Hypoxemia specifically refers to an abnormally low level of oxygen in the blood, particularly in the arterial blood. This condition can lead to various physiological effects, including shortness of breath, increased heart rate, and other signs of oxygen deprivation in tissues and organs. Monitoring blood oxygen levels is crucial in respiratory therapy, and recognizing hypoxemia allows practitioners to intervene appropriately, often through oxygen therapy or other interventions aimed at improving oxygenation.

The other options reflect different conditions that are not related to the definition of hypoxemia. For instance, low arterial blood carbon dioxide levels pertain to a different respiratory issue known as hypocapnia, while high blood oxygen levels refer to a state of hyperoxia, which can also have its own complications. Normal oxygen saturation levels do not indicate hypoxemia and would rather signify adequate oxygenation in the body. Understanding these distinctions is vital in respiratory therapy for accurate diagnosis and treatment.