Abstract: What is presented is an apparatus for visually determining whether respiration is occurring comprising a strip of material having a first side and a second side in which the first side has a layer of thermally sensitive material which undergoes a color change when exposed to a temperature variance caused by a subject's respiration. The thermally sensitive material could be a thermochromic liquid crystal compound. The second side could have a layer of adhesive which could be used to adhere the strip of material in the vicinity of the subject's upper lip. The strip of material could also be adhered to a visible surface of a respiratory assistance device with the adhesive.

Abstract: A hands free, support device for use on a patient convalescing from ophthalmologic surgery such as the type used to reattach a detached retina. The device can be repeatedly positioned between the base of a user/wearer's chin/jaw and upper chest so that no wrap around neck or head sling attachment means are required. When installed, the device will keep the user/wearer's chin tilted downward and toward the upper chest. A related method is also disclosed.

Abstract: A hands free, external airway position support device for use on a patient undergoing a surgical, therapeutic and/or diagnostic procedure. The device adheres to the patient at the base of his or her chin, jaw or neck so that no wrap around neck or head sling attachment means are required. When installed, the device will extend the patient's neck and maneuver his or her chin upward and outward, away from the base of the neck. As this device will be relatively inexpensive to manufacture and not overly complicated, it can be disposed of after use rather than requiring sterilization for reuse.