Abstract: The apparatus and method for quickly measuring the hemoglobin content of a sample of blood uses a light reflectance measurement of the hemoglobin sample lysed in a membrane. The reflection is inversely proportional to hemoglobin concentration. A blood sample is loaded on to a nylon mesh and dispersed within a nylon membrane, both of which have been treated with a hemolyzing agent and surfactant, and air-dried. As soon as the blood sample contacts the reagent on the membrane, the red blood cells are lysed and the hemoglobin molecules are released and dispersed into the membrane by the action of surfactant. The hemoglobin apparatus emits light at 522 nm to the reflective surface of the membrane. The intensity of the reflected light is measured by a detector in less than 29 seconds. The intensity of the reflected light is converted to hemoglobin concentration, g/dL, or mmol/L by an interpolative comparison with stored reflection data indicative of known hemoglobin contents.

Abstract: A protective device to be emplaced over the head of a user comprises a sack-like member fabricated from a flexible film material and having an opening to enable a user to place the sack-like member over the user's head. The sack-like member has an interior containing a predetermined amount of an oxygen producing material, wherein the material produces oxygen by reacting with the exhalation products of the user.

Abstract: The apparatus and method for quickly measuring the hemoglobin content of a sample of blood uses a light reflectance measurement of the hemoglobin sample lysed in a membrane. The reflection is inversely proportional to hemoglobin concentration. A blood sample is loaded on to a nylon mesh and dispersed within a nylon membrane, both of which have been treated with a hemolyzing agent and surfactant, and air-dried. As soon as the blood sample contacts the reagent on the membrane, the red blood cells are lysed and the hemoglobin molecules are released and dispersed into the membrane by the action of surfactant. The hemoglobin apparatus emits light at 522 nm to the reflective surface of the membrane. The intensity of the reflected light is measured by a detector in less than 29 seconds. The intensity of the reflected light is converted to hemoglobin concentration, g/dL, or mmol/L by an interpolative comparison with stored reflection data indicative of known hemoglobin contents.