Abstract: A communication/control device according to the invention may include a housing, a discrete switch and a membrane switch. The discrete switch and the membrane switch may be enclosed in the housing. The discrete switch may be in communication with a life-safety device. The membrane switch may be in communication with an environment device. In a method according to the invention, a housing is provided that has therein a discrete switch in communication with a life-safety device and a membrane switch in communication with an environment device. One of the switches may then be actuated to communicate information.

Abstract: The present invention operates when a fastening means connects to a patient. The fastening means attaches to one end of a flexible member and at the other end of the flexible member is a spherical member. The apparatus limits the distance the patient can move. This predetermined distance is the length of the flexible member, the fastening means and the spherical member. The spherical member is removably mounted to a control housing. The control housing has a signalling device that generates a signal when the patient moves beyond the pre-determined distance. The spherical member triggers the signalling device when the patient, from any direction, moves beyond the pre-determined distance which exerts a pulling force upon the spherical member.