Abstract: A method for taking reflectance oximeter readings within the nasal cavity and oral cavity and down through the posterior pharynx. The method utilizes a reflectance pulse oximeter sensor that preferably is resistant to bodily fluids to contact one of these capillary beds for the taking of readings and then forwarding of these readings to an oximeter for display. The method includes inserting a reflectance pulse oximeter sensor into a cavity within a subject's skull and contacting a capillary bed disposed in the cavity with the reflectance pulse oximeter sensor.

Abstract: A combined oropharyngeal airway/bite block is disclosed having pulse oximeter sensor elements capable of monitoring the posterior pharynx, the soft palate, the hard palate, and the buccal surface. The oropharyngeal airway portion has a thickened wall to house the pulse oximeter sensor elements and provide sufficient material to form grooves in the distal end. The grooves are utilized when the invention is turned on its side to act as a bite block with the grooves engaging the teeth of the patient. The pulse oximeter sensor elements include a light source, which emits light at wavelengths of about 660 nm and about 940 nm, and a light detector. The pulse oximeter sensor elements are in communication with a spectrophotometer for analysis.

Abstract: This invention is a protective covering to protect off-the-shelf disposable pulse oximeter sensors from bodily or surgical fluids. The protective covering will envelop and encase the inserted pulse oximeter sensor up to a point on the connection cable extending from the pulse oximeter sensor. The protective covering is a polypropylene, rubber, or similar material, which preferably is tapered from the large width at the entrance to the narrower width at the blind end. The protective covering is bilaminar in nature to contain a substantially rectangular pulse oximeter.

Abstract: A self-piercing pulse oximeter sensor is provided for attachment to subject, e.g., an individual or an animal. The device includes a flexible pulse oximeter sensor, an earring post, and a grommet. The earring post may be used as a piercing device if there is not a pierced body part suitable for attaching the pulse oximeter sensor to the body. Otherwise the earring post may be slid into the pierced hole. In either case, the tip of the earring post engages a grommet once passing through the body part. Thus, the pulse oximeter sensor functions in a transilluminance mode by transmitting light through the pierced body part.