Abstract: A coupling device is provided for allowing one wearing a protective mask to drink fluids from a standard drinking fluid container. The device includes a punch at one end, a central body, and a capture port at the other end of the central body. The punch punctures a wall of a fluid container. Drinking fluid flows into the central body. The drinking tube is inserted into the port to allow one to drink fluid from the container. The device allows one wearing a protective suit in a contaminated environment to obtain drinking fluid from a standard, commercially-available container.

Abstract: A gastric tube apparatus comprising a tube and a weighted leader which are releasbly attached by a material which dissolves in the patient's gastrointestinal tract. The apparatus is introduced into a patient through a nasal opening. After the tube and leader are properly placed in the gastrointestinal tract, the attachment material dissolves and the weighted leader may be removed from the patient, leaving the tube in place for treatment of the patient.

Abstract: A gastric tube apparatus comprising a tube and a weighted leader which are releasbly attached by a material which dissolves in the patient's gastrointestinal tract. The apparatus is introduced into a patient through a nasal opening. After the tube and leader are properly placed in the gastrointestinal tract, the attachment material dissolves and the weighted leader may be removed from the patient, leaving the tube in place for treatment of the patient.