Abstract: An inhaler for holding a canister (2) of medicament. The canister (2) has a mount (26) secured thereto mounting an indication member (41) movable slidably from a first state to a second state. A ratchet arrangement (41a, 42) is provided between the mount (26) and the indication member (41) to make the movement irreversible. The inhaler has a catch (49) for moving the indication member from the first state to the second state on removal of the canister (2) from the inhaler. An electrical switch contact (48) detects the state of the indication member (41), thereby providing an indication of whether the canister (2) has been used before. An LCD display is controlled in response to the detection.

Abstract: The invention is directed to a ventilation control system for controlling the ventilation of a patient. The ventilation control system utilizes a user-friendly user interface for the display of patient data and ventilator status. The user interface includes a graphic representation of a breath cycle that displays the breath cycle currently being ventilated, and is also responsive to changes in ventilation settings to assist the user in evaluation the effect of those changes on the ventilator strategy before the changes are implemented.

Abstract: A respirator system (10; 100) for a worker in an environment with hazardous airborne contaminants comprises a respirator (12, 112), a helmet (14, 114), a camera (40, 140), and a gas sample analyser (16, 116) capable of analysing samples of gas from within the respirator and in the immediate area near the user. An RF emitter (20, 120) sends a signal to a remote receiver (24, 124). The emitted signal is a real time view through the camera (40, 140) and overlaid on that is a graphical representation of the protection factor being achieved by the respirator. The system (100) may also have a data storage device (162, 170) to store data such as how protection factor varies with time and may have a position sensor (160). The provision of the position sensor (160) allows a map of contamination levels with position to be built up as a user moves around a site.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method for the metered administration of a therapeutically effective gas to a patient, comprising a step to remove harmful or undesired substances from the gas-carrying system or from parts of the gas-carrying system. According to the invention, the step consists of purging with one or more other gases or gas mixtures and/or it consists of evacuation.

Abstract: A gas administration apparatus, e.g., anesthesia machine, making use of three or more gas flow, e.g., vaporizer, units removably mounted thereon by an interlock exclusion system. The interlock/exclusion systems is operative to prevent opening of any gas flow unit if one gas flow unit is already open and irrespective of how many gas flow units are mounted on the apparatus at the time.

Abstract: A system and method for the remote administration of respirator fit tests are disclosed, along with a system and method for administering qualitative respirator fit tests to two or more test subjects simultaneously. Remote administration of respirator fit tests involves the testing of test subjects located at one facility by a test administrator located at a different facility. The two facilities may be located, for example, in the same city, in different countries, etc. As a result, a single test administrator may, for example, be able to administrate fit tests with test subjects located in a variety of facilities in one day without traveling. Qualitative respirator fit testing systems and methods of the invention include multiple test stations and an aerosol generator system in fluid communication with each of the test stations.

Abstract: There is provided a housing for a dispenser suitable for dispensing medicament, particularly for use in the treatment of respiratory disorders. The housing comprises a body; said body including a support for receipt of said aerosol container; a first outlet port connectable to a first pressure recorder for recording change of pressure on firing of said aerosol container; and a second outlet port connectable to a second pressure recorder for recording air pressure within the body; wherein said first outlet port and said second outlet port are separate such that the change of pressure on firing and the air pressure within the body are individually recordable.

Abstract: Carbon dioxide indicator for receiving gas containing carbon dioxide and for providing a visible indication of the presence of carbon dioxide in the gas, the indicator includes a connector for removably connecting the indicator to a source of gas containing carbon dioxide and which connector is for communicating at least a portion of such gas to the indicator. The carbon dioxide indicator may be a disk indicator and the connector may be a male luer or a locking male luer.

Abstract: A compliance monitoring system and method in which a modular compliance monitor is selectively disposed in-line in a patient circuit of a pressure support system. The monitor includes a housing having an inlet and an outlet, each of which is selectively connectable to the patient circuit so that the flow of gas in the patient circuit also passes through a passage is provided through the housing. A sensor operatively coupled to the passage detects a parameter indicative of patient breathing. A processor disposed in the housing and receives the output of the sensor and determines, from the output of the sensor, whether the patient is breathing into the patient circuit, and outputs compliance data based on this determination.

Abstract: The methods and devices disclosed provides for the delivery of agents to an orifice cavity and subsequent aspiration of the agent and orifice contents from the orifice cavity and related areas. In one form, the delivery and aspiration system comprises an agent delivery sub-assembly, an aspiration sub-assembly and a device tip sub-assembly. The subassemblies operate to first deliver an agent contained within the device to an orifice cavity and after an optional time delay, subsequently aspirate the delivered agent and orifice contents from the orifice cavity and related areas. In another form, a removable reservoir is provided whereby the aspirated agent and orifice contents from the orifice are assayed either independent of or within the device itself.

Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement in connection with equipment used in patient care, the arrangement comprising a controllable device (2a, 2b), a measuring device (5a, 5b) adapted to measure a measuring signal dependent on the controllable parameter, a measuring point of the measuring signal, a transmission link (21, 22) between the measuring point of the measuring signal and the measuring device, which transmission link requires a separate connection, whereby the measuring device (5a, 5b) is adapted to convert the measuring signal into measuring value which correlates with the operation of the controllable device, and the arrangement further comprising a user interface (20) and a control unit (7a, 7b) adapted to control the controllable device on the basis of the measuring value and the set values.

Abstract: Device (1) for monitoring cardiac compression being applied to a pateitn comprises a body to overlie and contact the sternum, preferably of width no greater than the width of the sternum. The device includes indidication means (9) responsive to the force applied to the body by the user for providing an indication of the cardiac compression applied to the sternum. Also disclosed is a resuscitation mask adapted to be place over the mouth of a patient, the mask includes a nostril closing means adapted to press against the sides of the nose to close the nostrils when the mask is sealed against the face of the patient.

Abstract: A method and corresponding medical ventilator for nullifying the work of breathing imposed by the ventilation breathing apparatus during ventilation support of a patient having a source of breathing gas, a pressure sensor, a microprocessor, at least one actuator of a pneumatic system, and driver circuits. The medical ventilator is in fluid communication with the source of breathing and an endotracheal tube which is in fluid communication with the lungs of the patient. At least one driver circuit adjusts at least one actuator to change the supply of the breathing gas. The pressure sensor measures the pressure of the gas proximate the distal end of the endotracheal tube and generates an output based on the sensed pressure. The microprocessor controls the supply of the breathing gas exiting the pneumatic system of the ventilator and is electrically coupled to the output of the pressure sensor.

Abstract: Self-contained underwater re-breathing apparatus having a breathing circuit, an injection system for adding fresh breathable gas to the breathing circuit, and an automatic control system including a microcomputer for monitoring physical parameters in the breathing circuit and controlling the feeding of breathable gas to the breathing circuit in accordance with said physical parameters. The re-breathing apparatus has a bailout system automatically activated in an emergency, where the breathing circuit is shut off, and the diver starts inhaling directly from the breathable gas supply and exaling to the environment. With the system of the invention, a part of the existing closed circuit is used for bailout, and no separate bailout circuit is provided. Therefore, there is no need to incorporate in the mouthpiece means for switching from one breathing circuit to another, and the mouthpiece can be kept smaller and simpler.

Abstract: A system for facilitating the delivery of a liquid anesthetic agent from an anesthetic bottle to an anesthetic vaporizer. The system includes a bottle adapter, an anesthetic bottle and a filler arrangement positioned on the anesthetic vaporizer. The bottle adapter and filler arrangement each include a keyed configuration such that only the correct type of anesthetic agent can be emptied into the anesthetic vaporizer. The bottle adapter includes an adapter valve assembly that engages a filler valve assembly contained within the filler. The dimensions and arrangement of the adapter valve assembly and the filler valve assembly insure anesthetic agent is delivered to the anesthetic vaporizer only when the anesthetic agent can safely flow from the anesthetic bottle to the anesthetic vaporizer.

Abstract: An air flow and filtration control system in the form of a headgear which is worn by a physician during a surgical procedure, a technician during an assembly process, or any other user wherein controlled air flow and air filtration is required or desired. The system includes a lightweight headgear structure which substantially surrounds the upper portion of the head of the wearer. A fan is mounted in the headgear structure and is positioned to move air relative to the headgear structure. A shroud (or hood) can be draped over and attached to the headgear structure in such a fashion as to completely cover the headgear structure and to cover at least a portion of the wearer in order to maintain sterile or controlled environmental conditions relative to the wearer. Typically, the shroud may include at least one filtration area (which may comprise the entire shroud) and a screen at the front of the apparatus for viewing therethrough.

Abstract: A medical respiratory apparatus includes a chamber (10) which is at least in part at least translucent. The chamber (10) includes a float member (12) formed of an inert material and contains, in use, a fluid intended for inhalation. The float member (12) is adapted to float upon the fluid intended to be contained within the chamber (10) and has a peripheral dimension adjacent, but less than, the internal peripheral dimension of the chamber (10). At least the outer peripheral surface of the float member (12) has a colouration distinct from that of the fluid to be contained within the chamber such that the level of the fluid within the chamber (10) can be readily observed.

Abstract: A parameter of interest being measured by a sensor is estimated from output response data from the sensor and the known transfer function of the sensor, allowing fast and accurate sensor data from sensors having a dynamic characteristic otherwise precluding assessment of the sensor input. A parameter of breathing gas from a ventilator is determined based upon the known transfer function and a plurality of the sensor output signals at predetermined intervals of time, to provide an estimation of the parameter of interest.

Abstract: In a method for assessing pulmonary stress, a volume of respiratory gas is received from the lungs of a subject, an ensuing pressure is measured and the pressure-volume (P-V) relationship is analyzed. The analysis includes a determination of the profile of the pressure-volume (P-V) relationship. The profile is straight when no stress is present, convex when there is a risk for over-distension and concave when alveolar units are opened up. Implemented in a breathing apparatus the method can be used to assist an operator in diagnostic and therapeutic considerations in relation to a patient.

Abstract: In a convective treatment system a wind-actuated instrument mounted near an end of an air hose provides, generates, issues, or sounds an audible alarm when the end becomes disconnected from a convective device and pressurized air continues to flow through the end. The instrument may be mounted on an interface device receivable on the end. The interface device may include means for reducing or stopping the flow of air through the end in response to the disconnection.

Abstract: The system and method for detecting disconnection and occlusion of a tubing system of a patient ventilator detects disconnection of the tubing system, opens the exhalation valve, delivers an idle flow of breathing gas to the tubing system, disables breath triggering, and generates an alarm. A reconnection of the tubing system can also be detected, to initiate resumption of pressure supported inspiration. For occlusion detection, the pressure drop in the tubing system is determined by pressure sensors in the inspiratory and expiratory airways of the tubing system. The two pressure drop values are compared, and once occlusion is detected, an alarm is generated, and the ventilator responds to protect the patient from over distension. Abatement of the occlusion can also be monitored in a pressure based occlusion status cycling mode, and the ventilator can revert back to normal ventilation when either circuit occlusion or exhaust port occlusion are not detected.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for calibrating the air flow in a respirator system is provided. The method provides for the establishment of control set points in a true calibration protocol through the simple triggering of the microprocessor of a controller. When the trigger is initiated, the microprocessor engages and provides the logic for the calibration cycle. The calibration cycle proceeds until a second trigger terminates the process and establishes the control set points. The calibration sequence of the method relies only on an initiation and termination trigger that is facilitated by components integral to the apparatus.

Abstract: A medical therapy compliance management system manages a patient's use of a therapy device, such as a nebulizer, in which treatments are to be provided at predetermined intervals. A compliance monitor coupled to the medical therapy device determines when a medical treatment is provided to the patient. A compliance controller receives data indicative of a medical treatment and can generate a reminder to the patient of future scheduled treatments. The compliance controller tracks the treatments provided and adjusts the reminders accordingly. The medical therapy compliance management system tracks certain parameters indicative of clinical or transactional events within the healthcare process. If any one of the measured or calculated parameters is outside a predetermined threshold the system notifies the patient and or caregiver. The system may also utilize interactive voice response technology to gather data from the patient.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method of checking the working and/or the state of breathing equipment prior to its use, and also to an arrangement for carrying out the method. The breathing equipment includes a control circuit which, in turn, includes a programmed microprocessor (7), a sensor (10) mounted in the breathing equipment and connected to the microprocessor, and an indicating arrangement (11) connected to the microprocessor (7). The inventive method is characterized by activating the control circuit and therewith measuring or determining at least one functional or state parameter, comparing the measured parameter value with a control value, and indicating an acceptable or unacceptable value in the indicating arrangement (11).

Abstract: Improved methodology and apparatus for the clinical study and treatment of sleep apnea which incorporates one or more of the following features: (1) application of mono-level, alternating high and low level, or variable positive airway pressure generally within the airway of the patient with the mono-level, high and low level, or variable airway pressure generally being coordinated with and/or responsive to the spontaneous respiration of the patient, (2) usage of adjustably programmable pressure ramp circuitry capable of producing multiple pressure ramp cycles of predetermined duration and pattern whereby the ramp cycles may be customized to accommodate the specific needs of an individual sleep apnea patient so as to ease the patient's transition from wakefulness to sleep, (3) remote control or patient-sensed operation of the apparatus, (4) employment of safety circuitry, reset circuitry and minimum system leak assurance circuitry, controls and methods, and (5) utilization of clinical control circuitry w

Abstract: The disclosed method of monitoring the cuff pressure of an LMA provides an estimation of a patient's anesthetic state. Cuff pressure tends to rise and fall during IPPV and spontaneous breathing. One of the disclosed methods activates an alarm if an instantaneous value of the cuff pressure exceeds selected levels. This method may also automatically adjust the selected levels. One of the disclosed methods activates an alarm if activity of the cuff pressure as observed over a period of time exceeds a selected level.

Abstract: A respirator that comprises a head piece (1) that is shaped to form a breathing zone (13) around at least the nose and mouth of the wearer, and an air flow passage (15, 34) for supplying a forced flow of air to the breathing zone. The air flow passage has a constricted portion (46) that includes a flow detecting orifice (52). The forced flow of air generates suction at the flow-detecting orifice. A pressure-responsive indicator device (30) is in fluid communication with the flow-detecting orifice through a tube (54) and is operable to alert the wearer if the suction generated by the air flow through the passage falls below a predetermined value.

Abstract: An embodiment of the present invention comprises a system for monitoring the physiologic status of a plurality of individuals wearing a self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) mask. Each SCBA mask incorporates a series of physiologic sensors that monitor, among other things, heart rate and carbon monoxide and oxygen saturation levels. The physiologic sensors are connected to a transmitting apparatus attached to the SCBA. Each SCBA transmitter sends output data from the physiologic sensors, along with the wearer's location information, to a remote base unit. A processor within the base unit compiles the physiologic and location data. In this way, the base unit monitors the particular physiologic status of an individual in a hazardous environment from a remote location. A further embodiment of the present invention includes monitoring the physiologic status and location of groups of individuals by combining a plurality of base units into a station unit.

Abstract: A system for facilitating the delivery of a liquid anesthetic agent from an anesthetic bottle to an anesthetic vaporizer. The system includes a bottle adapter, an anesthetic bottle and a filler arrangement positioned on the anesthetic vaporizer. The bottle adapter and filler arrangement each include a keyed configuration such that only the correct type of anesthetic agent can be emptied into the anesthetic vaporizer. The bottle adapter includes an adapter valve assembly that engages a filler valve assembly contained within the filler. The dimensions and arrangement of the adapter valve assembly and the filler valve assembly insure anesthetic agent is delivered to the anesthetic vaporizer only when the anesthetic agent can safely flow from the anesthetic bottle to the anesthetic vaporizer.

Abstract: A nitric oxide delivery system is disclosed that delivers a pulsed volume of NO containing therapeutic gas to a patient upon each inhalation of the patient. The NO delivery system includes certain functions to provide protection against the inadvertent inclusion of NO2 in the therapeutic gas administered to the patient. One of the functions is to provide a purge upon start up of the delivery system apparatus that clears the regulator and conduits of any NO2 that may have formed during the prior idle period of the system. A detector determines the start-up and may automatically carry out the purge cycle or may cause a prompt that is visual or audible to remind the user to carry out the purge cycle manually.

Abstract: An anesthesia system wherein the respiratory system is fitted with interchangeable patient circuit modules that allows a generic fitting in the machine to have affixed, hereto, a module that has ports suitable for connection to various patient breathing circuits. As such, the anesthesia machine can have the patient circuit modules easily changed and thus be adaptable for use with patient breathing circuits such as the circle system, the open/nonrebreathing circuit and the Bain or Mapleson D circuits. A detector system is provided that identifies that particular patient module installed in the anesthesia machine to alert the main CPU and to thus provide the correct flow sensing schemes and flows to the patient breathing circuit then being used.

Abstract: A pressure support system and method of using same that includes a pressure generator adapted to provide a gas flow, a conduit coupled to the pressure generator to deliver a gas flow to a patient, an interface device coupled to the conduit to communicate the gas flow to an airway of the patient. An exhaust vent that provides a flow of exhaust gas to atmosphere is provided in the conduit or the interface device. A flow sensor detects a rate at which gas flows in the conduit and provides a first output indicative thereof, and a pressure sensor detects a pressure of gas at the patient and provides a second output indicative thereof. A control system receives the first and second outputs and determines whether a current flow of exhaust gas passing through the exhaust vent is below an alarm threshold based on the first and second outputs and provides a third output indicative of this determination.

Abstract: In a method for assessing pulmonary stress, a flow of respiratory gas is supplied to the lungs of a subject, an ensuing pressure is measured in relation to time and the pressure-time relationship is analyzed. In this analysis, the profile of the pressure-time relationship is determined. In summary, the profile is straight when no stress is present, is convex when there is a risk for over-distension, and is concave when alveolar units are opened up. Implemented in a breathing apparatus the method can be used to assist an operator in diagnostic and therapeutic considerations in relation to a patient.

Abstract: Device for scuba diving consisting of at least a processor and of at least a manometer, both housed within a sheath, said manometer being connected to one or more bottles containing compressed air. The said processor includes a corresponding central unit for data processing, operatively connected to the manometer by means of connecting elements which allow said processor and said manometer to exchange information flows and also to be positioned within the housing sheath independently one from the other, so as to obtain a device for scuba diving with a modular structure.

Abstract: The CO2 detector has a bottom housing attached to a top housing. The bottom housing contains a rotatable port engageable to an intubation tube and multiple parallel integral filter support ridges on a top surface of a floor. A filter pad overlies the integral filter support ridges and a baffle overlies the filter pad. The baffle has multiple parallel filter support ridges on a bottom surface cooperating with the filter support ridges integral with the bottom housing to maintain the filter pad in position. The baffle has an air flow guide on a top surface and air passages. The top housing has a port connected to a CPR bag and a clear plastic disc overlying a CO2 calorimetric indicator paper. The colorimetric indicator paper is shown through a clear plastic cover after removing backing on the indicator paper through a sealable slot.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for operating a ventilator in a primary electronic mode or in a back-up pneumatic mode during primary electronic mode failure. A method and apparatus for operating a ventilator in an advanced mode, having a number of ventilatory modes, or in a basic mode, having a limited number of ventilatory modes is also disclosed.

Abstract: An endotracheal tube has a beveled distal end with a tip on the posterior wall of the endotracheal tube, and a visual indicator extending along the endotracheal tube. The visual indicator can be a radio-opaque stripe extending the length of the anterior and/or posterior wall of the endotracheal tube. The leading edge of the distal tip of the endotracheal tube can be curved in the anterior direction to reduce the risk to trauma to the patient's airway. The distal end of the endotracheal tube is inserted into the patient's mouth so that the visual indicator remains visible to the healthcare provider when viewed from above. The healthcare provider advances the endotracheal tube into the patient's airway while monitoring the position of the visual indicator to ensure that the tip at the distal end of the endotracheal tube passes through the midline of the wider posterior portion of the opening in the patient's larynx.

Abstract: A mask is shown which is used for providing air or oxygen for breathing. The mask has a differential pressure sensor for providing a signal to control oxygen or airflow to the mask. In one form the sensor is in the wall of the mask or in a wall of a supply tube, to sense the differences between ambient pressure, for example in the cabin of an aircraft, and pressure in the breathing space on the interior of the mask. Reduction in the pressure on the interior of the mask can indicate that a pilot is not receiving adequate oxygen, or is being subjected to stresses that may result in blackouts or red outs. The signal from the differential pressure sensor is used to control the flow of oxygen to the mask, and also can be used for controlling the pressure of pressurized suits worn by the pilot. The pressure sensor output also can be used to maintain a higher pressure on the interior of the mask to insure ambient air does not contaminate the air being breathed.

Abstract: A CPAP treatment apparatus, as one form of positive pressure ventilatory assistance, includes a turbine/blower, operated by a mechanically coupled electrical motor that receives air or breathable gas at an inlet thereof, and supplies the breathable gas at a delivery pressure to a delivery tube/hose having a connection at the other end thereof with a nose mask. A microcontroller has an operational “Mask-Fit” mode. An initial constant pressure level is applied by the blower to the mask. If the functional mode is a manual mode, then the mask-fit test pressure is the current ‘set’ pressure. If the functional mode is the automatic titration mode, the mask-fit test pressure is the 95th percentile pressure of the previous session, otherwise it is the base treatment pressure, e.g. 10-12 cm H2O. This constant pressure is applied for a period of time, typically 1-3 minutes.

Abstract: An improved respirator filter assembly includes an integral fit seal check mechanism easily controlled by the user. Upon release, the seal check mechanism permits free airflow through the filter assembly. The seal check mechanism includes an air passageway having a sealing rim and a blocking member which is selectively movable between engaged and disengaged positions relative to the sealing rim. A spring element is disposed to releasably maintain the blocking member in the disengaged position during filter assembly operation, wherein a user may actuate the blocking member against the bias of the spring element to move the blocking member into the engaged position to substantially prevent entry of air into the air passageway during seal checking.

Abstract: A personal pure air device where an air quality visualizer that can fit in a pocket like a pen samples ambient air quality for VOC's, poisonous gases, ozone, and possibly bacterial or viral content. The invention can contain a personal air bottle containing pure compressed air which can be dispensed through a regulator and tube to a nozzle to provide a plume of pure are around the user's nose and mouth providing a space of purified personal breathing air. The visualizer can be directly connected to the regulator to automatically start a flow of pure air when ambient air quality deteriorates, or the user can simply read the air visualizer and manually start the flow of pure air when desired through the use of valves.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus for determining leak and respiratory airflow are disclosed. A pressure sensor (34) and a differential pressure sensor (32) have connection with a pneumotach (24) to derive instantaneous mask pressure and airflow respectively. A microcontroller (38) estimates a non-linear conductance of any leak path occurring at a mask (12) as being the low pass filtered instantaneous airflow divided by the low pass filtered square root of the instantaneous pressure. The instantaneous leak flow is then the conductance multipled by the square root of the instantaneous pressure, and the respiratory airflow is calculated as being the instantaneous airflow minus the instantaneous leak flow. The time constants for the low pass filtering performed by the microcontroller (38) can be dynamically adjusted dependent upon sudden changes in the instantaneous leak flow.

Abstract: A self contained breathing apparatus includes a pressure vessel which holds a supply of breathing air. The pressure vessel is in fluid communication through a first stage pressure regulator with a second stage breathing regulator. The breathing regulator is operatively connected to a user face mask. When the pressure available in the supply is at a suitable pressure, the pressure regulator provides pressure to breathing regulator at a first pressure. When the pressure in the supply falls to a value indicative of impending depletion of the air supply, a transfer piston in a step up vale shifts. A change in condition of the step up valve causes a step up piston to increase the output pressure from regulator. This increased pressure moves a sensing piston and causes indicating devices in an alarm circuit to be activated. In alternative embodiments, an electronic alarm module may be used.

Abstract: An open- or closed-loop method and corresponding medical ventilator for providing breathing gas to a patient such that the patient exerts a desired work of breathing during pressure support ventilation, and such that the work of breathing of the patient is monitored and the pressure and/or flow rate of the breathing gas provided to the patient is controlled throughout the inspiratory phase to provide a pressure support ventilation level that provides the desired work of breathing in the patient.

Abstract: CPAP treatment apparatus (10), as one form of positive pressure ventilatory assistance, is disclosed. A turbine/blower (14), operated by a mechanically coupled electrical motor (16), receives air or breathable gas at an inlet (18) thereof, and supplies the breathable gas at a delivery pressure to a delivery tube/hose (20) having connection at the other end thereof with a nose mask (12). A microcontroller (38) has an operational “Mask-Fit” mode. An initial constant pressure level is applied by the blower (14) to the mask (12). If the functional mode is a Manual mode, then the mask-fit test pressure is the current ‘set’ pressure. If the functional mode is the Automatic Titration mode, the mask-fit test pressure is the 95th percentile pressure of the previous session, otherwise it is the base treatment pressure, e.g. 10-12 cm H2O. This constant pressure is applied for a period of time, typically 1-3 minutes.

Abstract: A condition is detected between an inlet port of an inflatable thermal device, such as an inflatable thermal blanket, and an end of an air hose through which a flow of pressurized, thermally treated air is provided to the device by way of the inlet port. The condition may be disconnection of the end of the air hose from the inlet port or the identification of a particular style of inflatable thermal device. A response to the condition may include provision of a perceptible indication that the condition has occurred. Other responses may include cessation of the flow of air or changing an air flow characteristic.

Abstract: An oxygen delivery system which provides a visual and audible warning signal for system or oxygen flow failure. When pressure fitted tubing detaches, the audible whistle alarm indicates that the oxygen delivery system has become disconnected and the system has failed. An audible alarm signals that the oxygen delivery system has failed. A clear acrylic ball, located at the device's central area, contains a fan. The fan is mounted so that it turns in response to oxygen flow. The turning fan has blades which are color coded to visually indicate the delivery rate of oxygen to a patient. An anti-reflux mechanism, located at the proximal end of the device assures the elimination of back-flow pathogens into re-usable permanent equipment.

Abstract: A device for preventing ignition of an endotracheal tube during laser surgery is provided, wherein the device permits communication among a sensor associated with endotracheal tube and a laser which generates the laser beam. When the sensor and endotracheal tube are impinged by the laser, the sensor senses this impingement, and communicates with a controller which controls power entering the laser beam. Because of such communication, the controller impedes power entering the laser, which extinguishes the laser and prevents ignition of the endotracheal tube.

Abstract: An indicator for detecting correct intubation of an endotracheal tube has a paper color-change element attached to a frame that is removably secured in a transparent connector in the machine end of the tube. A handle on the frame extends along the outside of the connector so that the indicator can be removed from the machine end of the connector by pulling the handle. The indicator prevents another connector being attached to the connector in the tube until after the indicator has been removed.

Abstract: A device for the supply of a gas from a respirator/anaesthesia device to a bedridden patient has at least one gas tube and a connecting interface, which can be connected to the patient, and an adjustable holding device for the gas tube and for the connecting interface. In order to prevent leaks, injury to the patient or damages to the gas tubes when the patient moves or changes position, the device is provided with at least one sensor and the holding device is provided with control arrangement for controlling its movements. The sensor detects movement of the patient is connected via the connecting interface, and a signal generated by the sensor and supplied to the control arrangement which, dependent thereon, controls the holding device such that its movements and therefore the movements of the connecting interface automatically follow the movements of the patient.