Abstract: An electronic thermometer includes a color coded probe permanently fastened by an electrical cable to a color coded isolation chamber to prevent inadvertent use of a rectal probe with an oral isolation chamber. Red and blue isolation chambers used for oral and rectal temperatures, respectively, can readily be used with one thermometer housing. A connector between the isolation chamber and the housing automatically connects and disconnects the probe and the thermometer circuits when the isolation chamber is inserted into or removed from the housing. Moreover, insertion of the probe into the isolation chamber automatically actuates a switch in the electronic thermometer housing to deactivate the electric circuits. Withdrawal of the probe from the chamber automatically supplies power to the thermometer circuits to ready the thermometer for operation.

Abstract: An electronic thermometer probe and cover assembly includes a probe extending from a handle and having limited axial movement into the handle against a resilient force. An elongated cover having open and closed ends fits over the probe. Cooperating elements on the open end of the cover and the handle snap together when the probe is moved into the handle by the cover to retain the cover in position with intimate contact between the probe end and cover. Actuation of a thumb button on the handle increases the force urging the probe out of the handle to unsnap the cover from the probe handle.

Abstract: A probe cover holding and dispensing arrangement for an electronic thermometer includes a chamber in the thermometer housing to receive a carton containing the probe covers. A tear-away flap on the carton exposes some of the covers. An aperture in the chamber, closable by a sliding cover, provides access to the exposed covers.

Abstract: An underwater drainage device for removing fluid, blood and gases from the pleural cavity between the lung and the surrounding rib cage of patient. The underwater drainage device includes a collection chamber in fluid communication with the patient, a water seal chamber and a suction chamber. There is a baffled manifold which interconnects and provides fluid communication between the chambers. The collection chamber is removably connected to the manifold to permit emptying and/or testing of the fluid therein. The manometer chamber is also removable to permit changing the amount of suction. There is an anti-flux device which retards liquid flow from the water seal chamber in the event of high negativity at the patient. The device is constructed so that there is minimal fluid loss in the event the device is knocked over and there is a stand and hooks for positioning the underwater drainage device where desired.