Final answer:
Fluorescent optodes are mainly used for point-of-care blood gas analysis, leveraging fluorescence to measure physiological parameters non-invasively.
Step-by-step explanation:
Fluorescent optodes are devices that use the principle of fluorescence to monitor physiological parameters. In medicine, they are most commonly employed in point-of-care blood gas analysis. This technology is particularly useful as it provides real-time information on blood gases without the need for blood to be removed from the body.
Fluorescent optodes rely on specific fluorescent dyes that respond to changes in pH or the presence of gases like oxygen and carbon dioxide within the blood. These devices offer a non-invasive and continuous way to monitor a patient's respiratory and metabolic status.