Abstract: An infusion set and an intravenous bag adapter constructed of ultraviolet transmissive thermoplastic is used in spectroscopic validation of pharmaceuticals. The described hardware allows for qualitative and quantitative assurance of medications and is used to prevent medication errors. The thermoplastic is transmissive in the range of 240 to 315 nanometers.

Abstract: An infusion set and an intravenous bag adapter constructed of ultraviolet transmissive thermoplastic are used in spectroscopic validation of pharmaceuticals. The described hardware allows for qualitative and quantitative assurance of medications and is used to prevent medication errors. The thermoplastic is transmissive in the range below 315 nanometers. In one embodiment, the invention comprises a spectrometer and a test chamber that are unaffected by the presence of ambient light. The spectrometer includes an unshielded slot or receptacle into which the test chamber is easily fitted. This embodiment can function well in drug diversion programs for which unused post-op narcotics can be tested.

Abstract: An infusion set and an intravenous bag adapter constructed of ultraviolet transmissive thermoplastic are used in spectroscopic validation of pharmaceuticals. The described hardware allows for qualitative and quantitative assurance of medications and is used to prevent medication errors. The thermoplastic is transmissive in the range below 315 nanometers. In one embodiment, the invention comprises a spectrometer and a test chamber that are unaffected by the presence of ambient light. The spectrometer includes an unshielded slot or receptacle into which the test chamber is easily fitted. This embodiment can function well in drug diversion programs for which unused post-op narcotics can be tested.

Abstract: An infusion set and an intravenous bag adapter constructed of ultraviolet transmissive thermoplastic is used in spectroscopic validation of pharmaceuticals. The described hardware allows for qualitative and quantitative assurance of medications and is used to prevent medication errors. The thermoplastic is transmissive in the range of 240 to 315 nanometers.

Abstract: This invention is an improvement to medical devices used for home and remote monitoring. The improvements include a coated fabric electrode used for arm and wristbands and for pulse oximeter clips. The electrode is comprised of the hook portion of hook and loop material that is coated with material made from a noble metal such as silver.

Abstract: A simplified device and method for continuous ECG monitoring incorporates electrodes in a pulse oximeter finger probe and/or in a blood pressure cuff. The electrodes in the pulse oximeter and blood pressure cuff generate a continuous ECG tracing without the use of disposable electrodes connected to multiple electrical wires in an ECG harness. In another embodiment, simplified ECG monitoring system can act as a secondary ECG input to a system that uses a primary ECG input as well.

Abstract: A simplified device and method for continuous ECG monitoring incorporates electrodes in a pulse oximeter finger probe and/or in a blood pressure cuff. The electrodes in the pulse oximeter and blood pressure cuff generate a continuous ECG tracing without the use of disposable electrodes connected to multiple electrical wires in an ECG harness. In another embodiment, simplified ECG monitoring system can act as a secondary ECG input to a system that uses a primary ECG input as well.

Abstract: A device and process for preventing medical errors due to the improper administration of an intravenously delivered medication includes the spectroscopic analysis of intravenous fluid components. An emission source and detector are placed adjacent to the intravenous tubing of an administration set to generate signals for spectroscopic analysis. The signals are processed to identify the medication and, in certain embodiments of the invention, can determine the medication's concentration. In a preferred embodiment, the emission source, detector, and hardware and software for the spectroscopic analysis are placed in an infusion pump.

Abstract: A device and process for preventing medical errors due to the improper administration of an intravenously delivered medication includes the spectroscopic analysis of intravenous fluid components. An emission source and detector are placed adjacent to the intravenous tubing of an administration set to generate signals for spectroscopic analysis. The signals are processed to identify the medication and, in certain embodiments of the invention, can determine the medication's concentration. In a preferred embodiment, the emission source, detector, and hardware and software for the spectroscopic analysis are placed in an infusion pump.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube for use with a fiberoptic bronchoscope or other intubation stylet is described. There are ventilation holes located on the tapering section on the distal tip such that ventilation may occur while using the fiberoptic scope and such that resistance to ventilation is minimized with the scope removed. The endotracheal tube is particularly useful for difficult intubations as the distal tip is tapered which facilitates passage through the larynx.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube for use with a fiberoptic bronchoscope or other intubation stylet is described. There are ventilation holes located on the tapering section on the distal tip such that ventilation may occur while using the fiberoptic scope and such that resistance to ventilation is minimized with the scope removed. The endotracheal tube is particularly useful for difficult intubations as the distal tip is tapered which facilitates passage through the larynx.

Abstract: An inexpensive surgical stapler, such as for use in securing vascular catheters, has a plastic applicator made for use with a single staple. The applicator has a backbone and two identical arms. The inside face of the backbone has a retaining channel that secures the crown portion of the staple against movement. The inside faces of the arms have guidance grooves that direct the movement of the staple as the applicator arms are squeezed with finger pressure. The outside faces of the arms are configured to permit gripping by the operator's fingers. The stapler can be used in lieu of suturing. Other staple and applicator assemblies can include two or more of such assemblies.

Abstract: An inexpensive surgical stapler, such as for use in securing vascular catheters, has a plastic applicator made for use with a single staple. The applicator has a backbone and two identical arms. The inside face of the backbone has a retaining channel that secures the crown portion of the staple against movement. The inside faces of the arms have guidance grooves that direct the movement of the staple as the applicator arms are squeezed with finger pressure. The outside faces of the arms are configured to permit gripping by the operator's fingers. The stapler can be used in lieu of suturing. Other staple and applicator assemblies can include two or more of such assemblies.