Abstract: A valving mechanism for use within a blood passageway of a blood access device. The valving mechanism includes a plugging means and a valve chamber for receiving the plugging means when it is removed from its seat in the blood passageway. The valving mechanism also includes a retaining element adapted to slidably engage the valve chamber and an external rim of the blood access device for securing the valve chamber and blood access device. When the valve chamber is not in use, a retaining cap and retaining cap ring are used to secure the plugging means within the blood access device passageway.

Abstract: A device and method for measuring blood characteristics and parameters, especially arterial, venous, or differential blood oxygen saturation levels uses one or two probes containing a unique configuration of light emitters of two different wavelengths, and sensors which alternately illuminate and read reflected light from blood passing through a specially-designed cuvette. Electronic comparison of reflected radiation received by the probes produces a voltage which is linearly related to blood oxygen saturation level. An opto-electronic feedback network compensates for differences in blood optical density.

Abstract: A device and method for measuring blood characteristics and parameters, especially arterial, venous, or differential blood oxygen saturation levels uses one or two probes containing a unique configuration of light emitters of two different wavelengths, and sensors which alternately illuminate and read reflected light from blood passing through a specially-designed cuvette. Electronic comparison of reflected radiation received by the probes produces a voltage which is linearly related to blood oxygen saturation level. An opto-electronic feedback network compensates for differences in blood optical density.

Abstract: A valving mechanism and method for use of such mechanism within a blood passageway of a blood access device. The valving mechanism includes a reciprocal plugging means which seals the blood passageway when the plugging means is in the closed position and which provides a blood channel for transfering blood therethrough only when said plugging means is reciprocated into its open valving mechanism position and means for reciprocating said plugging means between the closed and open valving mechanism positions.

Abstract: A valving mechanism for use within a blood passageway of a blood access device. The valving mechanism includes a plugging means and a valve chamber for receiving the plugging means when it is removed from its seat in the blood passageway. The valving mechanism also includes a retaining element adapted to slidably engage the valve chamber and an external rim of the blood access device for securing the valve chamber and blood access device. When the valve chamber is not in use, a retaining cap and retaining cap ring are used to secure the plugging means within the blood access device passageway.