Abstract: A method and article for storing an automatic external defibrillator for use without a prescription are described. The hermetically sealed electrode pads of the OTC AED are electrically coupled to the OTC AED base unit where they are constantly accessible to self-test circuitry inside the base unit for periodic, automatic self-test. In one embodiment the self-test is designed to determine whether the conductive gel of the electrode pads has dried out. In another embodiment self-test circuitry also tests the battery while the OTC AED is being stored prior to use.

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: An apparatus for storing one or more electrodes for an automatic external defibrillator includes inter alia a cavity and a lid. The cavity accepts the one or more electrodes and includes at least one vertical surface. A top lateral edge surface of the cavity meets the at least one vertical surface and has a first end with at least one hole. At least one ridge extends horizontally out from the at least vertical surface of the cavity. The lid is detachably attached to the cavity and includes a bottom surface that faces the top lateral edge surface of the cavity, as well as at least one protrusion that extends into the hole in the top lateral edge surface when the lid is attached to the cavity. The hole and the protrusion form a hinge structure at a hinged end of the lid and cavity. A handle is rotatably mounted to the lid opposite the hinged end.

Abstract: A medical connector and adapter system that includes: a male cable connector, and a female cable-receiving housing for electrically coupling with the male cable connector. The male cable connector has a protrusion that is adapted to slide over the wall of the female cable-receiving housing. In one embodiment, the protrusion prevents the male cable connector from mating with a female cable-receiving housing that is incorporated into the housing of a defibrillator when there is no accommodation in the defibrillator housing to receive the protrusion. Further the male cable connector is electrically connected to pediatric electrodes and enables pediatric electrodes to be used with a manual defibrillator.

Abstract: A medical connector and adapter system that includes: a male cable connector, and a female cable-receiving housing for electrically coupling with the male cable connector. The male cable connector has a keying protrusion that corresponds to a keying channel in the cable-receiving housing. The keying feature prevents the male cable connector from being installed into a cable-receiving housing that does not have a keying channel.