Abstract: An ECG monitoring system for ambulatory patients includes a battery-powered ECG monitor which attaches to a patient to receive patient electrical signals. A processor continuously processes received ECG signals and stores the signals in memory in the monitor. A wireless transceiver in the ECG monitor transmits the processed ECG signals to a cellphone handset. The battery of the monitor is recharged when the monitor is properly positioned in a charging dock, during which time the ECG signals are sent to the cellphone handset. Preferably the cellphone handset is recharged by the charging dock at the same time. At the conclusion of recharging and data transfer the monitor performs a self-test. A light on the charging dock is illuminated if any of the operations performed while the monitor is docked is unsuccessful.

Abstract: An ECG monitoring system for ambulatory patients includes a battery-powered ECG monitor which attaches to a patient to receive patient electrical signals. A processor continuously processes received ECG signals and stores the signals in memory in the monitor. A wireless transceiver in the ECG monitor transmits the processed ECG signals to a cellphone handset. The battery of the monitor is recharged when the monitor is properly positioned in a charging dock, during which time the ECG signals are sent to the cellphone handset. Preferably the cellphone handset is recharged by the charging dock at the same time. At the conclusion of recharging and data transfer the monitor performs a self-test. A light on the charging dock is illuminated if any of the operations performed while the monitor is docked is unsuccessful.

Abstract: Handling or removal of a pair of pre-connected defibrillator electrode pads from their package, or a compartment in the defibrillator, is detected in order to effectively time the issuance of prompts to guide the user. Detection occurs when an impedance level between the electrode pads varies sufficiently over time to indicate occurrence of the handling or removal event. The pads are preferably configured to leverage variability in the impedance that results from bending of pads during handling or removal.

Abstract: Handling or removal of a pair of pre-connected defibrillator electrode pads from their package, or a compartment in the defibrillator, is detected in order to effectively time the issuance of prompts to guide the user. Detection occurs when an impedance level between the electrode pads varies sufficiently over time to indicate occurrence of the handling or removal event. The pads are preferably configured to leverage variability in the impedance that results from bending of pads during handling or removal.

Abstract: A method for operating an automatic external defibrillator (AED) prompts an operator about proper operation of the automatic external defibrillator and placement of the electrodes to ensure rapid and proper operation. Depending upon a state of a pad storage compartment, upon activation the AED issues an initial prompt, pauses after the initial prompt and then issues a second prompt. The AED also determines whether the pads have been removed from a liner and if so, issues a pad application prompt. The AED next determines whether both pads have been placed and if so, analyzes an impedance signal and if the impedance signal is erratic, issues a pad correction prompt. The AED also issues the pad correction prompt if the pads are removed from the liner but never go on the patient.