Abstract: A portable ventilator system is loaded with specialized software that addresses specific needs of a targeted patient population. Particularly contemplated target patient populations include patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, etc.), obstructive sleep apnea, congestive heart failure, neuromuscular paralysis, a high risk of sudden cardiac arrest, and individuals vocationally likely to encounter nuclear, biological, or chemical hazards. Preferred systems include a radio frequency transmitter that sends data from the system to a distal service provider. Contemplated data that can be sent includes location information, diagnostic and intervention information. In another aspect systems can be is integrated with a defibrillator.

Abstract: An airway opening system has an autoinflating hyperextension cervical pillow. The pillow is placed under the next of the non-breathing victim, and is inflated in a manner that opens the airway. In preferred embodiments, the pillow is automatically inflated using air pressure from a ventilator.

Abstract: A ventilator has a microprocessor that assists in automatically determining an appropriate breathing mode, and either the microprocessor or some other circuitry utilizes the mask to deliver that mode. Contemplated breathing modes include all of the recognized breathing modes (i.e, controlled mandatory ventilation, synchronized intermittent mandatory ventilation, pressure controlled and/or pressure supported ventilation, and high frequency ventilation) as well as other breathing modes.

Abstract: A breathing assistance device is provides guidance to the rescuer, guidance to the victim, and modifies treatment parameters automatically based upon feedback loops relating to patient needs. Guidance can include pictograms showing cartoons of lung expansion, airway patency, breathing rate, and depth of breathing. A microprocessor preferably produces the pictorial guidance as a function of at least one of estimated end tidal CO2, estimated fractional inspired oxygen, estimated fractional expired oxygen, estimated airway resistance, and estimated lung compliance. The microprocessor can also execute a software code that executes a feedback loop that attempts to normalize values of a parameter over time, by controlling at least one pressure in a neck pillow, mask pressure, breathing rate, breathing volume, inspiration time, and expiration time.

Abstract: A portable positive pressure breathing apparatus includes a demand valve with a supply inlet port adapted to be connected to a pressurized source of oxygen and an outlet port adapted to be connected to the inlet of a patient's breathing appliance. The demand valve further includes a reference chamber and a valve assembly responsive to the reference chamber/appliance inlet pressure differential for connecting/disconnecting the inlet port to and from the outlet port. At least one manually adjustable back pressure regulator is connected to the pressure source and the reference chamber for setting the pressure in the reference chamber (and inlet to the breathing appliance) at a selected level above atmospheric pressure.