Abstract: A package for containing medical implements in separate pouches packaged together in a continuous strip. The pouches are spaced from one another along the strip and each is maintained in sterile condition until opened. The pouches can be separated one from the other while maintaining the sterility of each pouch and the opening of one pouch can be attained without breaching the integrity and sterility of the another pouch. Each pouch can be opened independently and stored jointly or singly.

Abstract: A medical insertion device that reduces the drag force exerted on an elongated member such as a catheter that is inserted through the device, increases maneuverability of the elongated member throughout the procedure in which the device is used and provides hemostasis. The device comprises a sheath housing and shuttle housing; the shuttle housing moves relative to the sheath housing. An elastomeric valve that contains an openable radial slit is provided in the sheath housing and provides hemostasis until the shuttle housing is biased towards the sheath housing. When the shuttle housing is biased forward, a generally tubular shuttle tube in the shuttle housing opens the slit in the elastomeric valve. The device is constructed so that, within the shuttle housing, hemostasis is provided after the shuttle tube has biased the elastomeric valve open.

Abstract: A device and method for remotely zeroing a hydrostatic pressure compensation device are described which permit a fluid transducer, such as is used in conjunction with an intravenous catheter for the measurement of blood pressure, to be zeroed regardless of its elevation. A hydrostatic pressure compensation tube is placed in closed fluid communication with both faces of the transducer so as to provide the same pressure to each side. As an example, the transducer may measure the deflection with a piezoresistive or piezoelectric crystal or may alternatively utilize a semiconductor membrane with implanted resistive elements. The transducer may be coupled or formed integral to a manifold. In such a device, the transducer may be zeroed at any vertical position.