Abstract: A demand valve resuscitator having a reduced manual flow control. The resuscitator connects between a source of pressurized gas and a breathing mask. A patient may draw a flow of gas on demand through the resuscitator by inhaling. A pressure-responsive diaphragm within a pressure chamber, actuated on demand or manually, acts on a tilt valve in a gas intake port. Alternatively, an attendant may supply a reduced flow of gas to a patient by depressing a manual control button, which tilts the intake valve. The manual control of the gas flow is overridden by excess pressure within the pressure chamber of the resuscitator and the button must be released to reassert manual control. A baffle plate in the pressure chamber provides a venturi assist to reduce pressure adjacent the diaphragm to enable the patient to obtain maximum gas flow on demand with slight inhale suction. An anti-suffocation valve allows the patient to breath ambient air in the absence of a predetermined gas inlet pressure.

Abstract: Disclosed is a backboard for use by paramedics and the like constructed of a hollow plastic shell with supporting beams extending substantially its length. The beams are encapsulated within hollow ribs extending along the bottom of the shell with several spacers and plugs to help position the beams. The beams provide rigidity to the backboard in the primary load bearing direction.

Abstract: A patient demand valve is automatically cycled open to provide selected volumes of oxygen at selected intervals. A pneumatic controller connected to an oxygen supply provides a control pressure to operate the demand valve, with the cycling provided by pneumatic timers. The oxygen supply to the patient is also through the controller to the demand valve. A tidal volume flow control valve provides an adjustable flow rate when open. In one embodiment, the patient demand valve is in an assembly which includes a safety subassembly, which incorporates a signaling device that indicates an over-pressure condition in the assembly as a result of a blockage of gas flow to the patient, and also includes an anti-suffocation valve.

Abstract: An inexpensive, disposable aspirator is provided with a cover of unitary construction threadable onto a container for retaining body fluids removed from a patient. Instead of sterilizing the aspirator after the removal of body fluids, the aspirator is simply thrown away, thus minimizing contact with body fluids contaminated with infectious diseases such as AIDS. The aspirator is provided with a valve for controlling the flow of gas through the aspirator.

Abstract: A flat plate is die cut into a desired shape that is then bent into the shape of a closed loop yoke for mounting a pressure regulator on the end of a compressed gas cylinder. The yoke is clamped in that shape by a threaded bushing extending through holes in overlapping end segments. Index pins formed in the die cut plate are bent from the plane of the plate to extend into the interior of the yoke.