Abstract: An ECG monitoring system for ambulatory patients includes a small multi-electrode patch that adhesively attaches to the chest of a patient. A reusable battery-powered ECG monitor clips onto the patch and receives patient electrical signals from the electrodes of the patch. A processor continuously processes received ECG signals and stores the signals in memory in the monitor. Processed ECG signals and cardiac event information are sent wirelessly to a cellphone handset for relay to a monitoring center. The ECG monitor is contained in a watertight sealed case with only electrical contacts on the outside of the case. The electrical contacts electrically couple the ECG monitor to the electrodes of the patch during patient monitoring and to a charger during recharge of the battery.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an extended wear biomedical electrode assembly, comprising at least two conductive gel pads spaced apart from each other, electrodes in contact with the gel pads, a support construction disposed substantially laterally with respect to the gel pads, surrounding the gel pads, filling space between neighboring gel pads, and overlapping an lower, outer perimeter of each of the gel pads. A smooth, even skin-contacting surface and a mechanical decoupling of the connector from the skin improve user comfort.

Abstract: A biomedical electrode patch having improved resistance to capacitive coupling to extraneous electric fields. The patch includes a conductive shield and a contact portion formed on an upper surface thereof. The contact portion extends through the film layer and contacts an electrode formed of a material suitable for conducting electrical signals from a patient. Conductive traces formed on the lower surface of the tab extend to contact pads. A nonconductive layer is printed over the traces and can have a shield formed thereon.

Abstract: An ECG monitoring device comprises an integral handheld device including a ECG electronic module and an electrode patch having a plurality of electrodes which contact a subject by conductive hydrogel. A release liner covers and protects the hydrogel prior to use and is removed to expose the hydrogel. A second release liner is removed to expose a pressure sensitive adhesive by means of which the device is attached to a subject. The first and second release liners may be parts of a single release liner layer. After use the electrode patch is disposable and the ECG electronic module is detached from the patch for reuse.

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 medical sensor having at least one electrode configured to be placed on a patient for medical monitoring and a motion sensor integrated in the medical sensor with the electrode, the motion sensor configured to detect patient motion and provide electrical signals in response thereto.

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: A device (8) comprises a medical device (10) which includes device electrical contacts (50). A patch (22) includes at least partially conductive first layer (28), which is in direct operative communication with a base surface (18). A patch connector (26) includes electrical contacts (42) being in electrical communication with the first conductive layer (28) and establishes an electrical communication path between the base surface (18) and medical device contacts (50), and a mechanical connection between the patch (22) and the medical device (10) when the patch connector (26) and the medical device (10) are engaged.

Abstract: A single separable electrode that includes a plurality of separable electrically connected electrode sections.

Abstract: A single separable electrode that includes a plurality of separable electrically connected electrode sections.

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 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: A defibrillation system for patients of all ages may include an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) coupled to a set of universal electrodes. Universal electrodes may be reduced-size versions of adult electrodes, and may include an opening to lower effective impedance. The AED may include an adult/pediatric mode control or switch. Based upon the setting of the adult/pediatric switch, the AED may perform an adult defibrillation sequence or a pediatric defibrillation sequence. An adult defibrillation sequence may comprise delivery of one or more waveforms or shocks characterized by energies appropriate for adults, for example, 150 Joule biphasic waveforms. A pediatric defibrillation sequence may comprise delivery of one or more waveforms characterized by energies appropriate for children, for example, 50 Joule biphasic waveforms.

Abstract: A package stores at least one electrode pad having a lead. The package includes an interior for storing the pad, and includes a portion that is openable to allow removal of the package from the leads. For example, the openable portion of the package may include a sealed seam through which the lead extends. The operator can peel apart the seam to both open the package and free the package from the lead. Where the pad is a defibrillator electrode pad, the ability to quickly and easily free the package from the lead may save precious seconds during the rescue of a patient in cardiac arrest. For example, freeing the package from the lead typically allows the operator a fuller view of and easier access to the defibrillator and the patient, and eliminates a potential distraction.

Abstract: A package for increasing shelf life of electrodes packaged therein. A first package within which one or more gel-containing electrode pads are sealed. In addition, at least one moisture source is sealed within the package.

Abstract: A modular automated external defibrillator (AED) system includes a base unit and at least one interconnected module. The base unit typically includes a functional circuit and includes an interface that couples the functional circuit to the module. Likewise, the module includes an interface that couples the module to the base unit By manufacturing such modular AED models instead of one-piece, i.e., integrated, AED models, a manufacturer can reduce the cost and complexity of its manufacturing process. Furthermore, the manufacturer may be able to bring such a modular AED to market more quickly than it could bring an integrated model of the AED to market. Moreover, a modular AED allows the manufacturer and customer flexibility in respectively providing and selecting feature sets. In addition, a customer can obtain replacements for broken modules, and the manufacturer can provide cheaper upgrades by upgrading a module or base unit instead of upgrading the entire AED.

Abstract: An electrode includes a conductive adhesive layer and a conductive foil layer having a void therein. One such electrode may be mounted in conjunction with another electrode upon a release liner having one or more openings therein to facilitate electrical signal exchange between electrodes. A release liner may include a moisture permeable and/or moisture absorbent membrane. A release liner may alternatively include a conductive backing layer. A release liner may also include an insulating swatch covering an opening. A release liner may be implemented as a foldable sheet, such that multiple electrodes may be mounted upon the same side of the foldable sheet. A medical device to which the mounted electrodes are coupled may characterize the electrical path between the electrodes. The medical device may perform a variety of electrical measurements, including real and/or complex impedance measurements.

Abstract: An electrode-pad storage package includes an interior for storing one or more electrode pads and a window that provides a view into the interior. Because it has a window, the package often reduces the time it takes for an operator to attach the electrode pad or pads to a patient. For example, such a see-through package often saves precious seconds by allowing the operator to view the instructions on a defibrillator electrode pad or pads, and thus determine which electrode pad goes where, before opening the package. Such a package may also save time by allowing the operator to determine the pad type, and thus determine whether the electrode pad or pads are appropriate for the patient, before opening the package. In this latter case, the package may also prevent the operator from unnecessarily opening, and thus wasting, a package containing an inappropriate electrode pad or pads.

Abstract: A cartridge is provided for storing one or more electrode pads such as a defibrillator electrode pad. The cartridge includes a housing having a rigid portion, a storage space disposed within the housing, and a storage-space opening that allows one to remove/insert the electrode pad or pads from/into the storage space. Because it has a housing with a rigid portion, such a cartridge can better protect one or more electrode pads from handling damage. Furthermore, one can construct the cartridge such that it is attachable to a medical device such as an AED. This allows an operator to carry or store the medical device, cartridge, and one or more electrode pads as a single unit. In addition, one can construct the cartridge such that the one or more electrode pads can be pre-connected to the medical device. This can eliminate connecting the one or more electrode pads to the medical device during an emergency.

Abstract: A sealed package for housing an electrical component. The package includes at least two package portions. Determining elements within the sealed package determine at least one parameter including at least one ambient condition within the package and/or an electrical function parameter of the component. An indicator is operatively connected to the determining elements to indicate the functionality of the component within the sealed package.