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

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: 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: 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: 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 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.

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.