Abstract: A chemical cartridge or an oxygen generating breathing apparatus includes an outer canister and an inner canister with an interior space. At least one alkali hyperoxide or earth alkali hyperoxide that can act as an electrolyte in the presence of moisture and at least one first metallic material are provided in the interior space of the inner canister. At least one second metallic material is provided between the inner canister and the outer canister or is at least partially integrated into the outer canister wall. Between the inner canister including the first metallic material and the outer canister including the second metallic material an ion-permeable material is arranged such that the cartridge generates electrical power when in use by creating a potential between the first metallic material and the second metallic material when the at least one alkali hyperoxide or earth alkali hyperoxide is contacted by CO2 and moisture.

Abstract: A system for assisting an operator in exerting efforts comprises a garment that can be worn by the operator, which is to engage, when worn, the mutually mobile parts of a joint of the operator. The system defines at least one axis of rotation that is to assume a position corresponding to the joint of the operator. A device is carried by the garment and designed to operate so as to compensate the resistive moments that act on the joint during the effort exerted by the operator. A compensation device is provided equipped with a rotational assembly, which has a neutral position and is able to determine a pre-set plot of the assisting torque that is a function of the angle of rotation of the joint. The compensation device may include a tension regulation device to regulate a moment obtained about the joint of the operator.

Abstract: A resuscitation training device attaches to an air delivery ventilation device to determine if there is a proper mask seal between a live training subject or a training manikin. A pressure sensor attached to the resuscitation training device provides instant feedback to determine if there is a proper seal. The resuscitation training device includes a tubular member having an air metering orifice in fluid communication with the mask and the pressure sensor.

Abstract: A device, called expandable spacer, for improving the efficacy of drug delivery in metered dose inhalers is described. The device has a body made of flexible (might be expandable) material. It can shrink in size when it is not in use and can go back to its normal shape and size when it is used. The device further comprises a valve (can be one way valve) that helps the drug to be maintained inside the spacer's cavity and opens during inhalation and closes during exhalation.

Abstract: An isolation barrier and method of using it. The isolation barrier includes a mask with a face opening and at least one access opening in front of the subject's nose and/or mouth and an enclosure having a first enclosure opening attached around the access opening, a second enclosure opening, and flexible material extending from the first enclosure opening to the second enclosure opening and defining an enclosure interior, the flexible material comprising at least one area through which the enclosure interior can be viewed, the mask and enclosure interior defining a medical procedure field extending from the subject's nose and mouth to the second enclosure opening when the isolation barrier is in place on the subject's face.

Abstract: The invention relates to a filtration assembly (5) comprising an annular support (12) which comprises an annular step (13) having an apex on which a filter membrane (11) rests, and a cover (20) covering the annular support in order to hold a periphery of the membrane between the cover and the annular support. The cover comprises a ring (21) which fits around the step to trap the periphery of the membrane between the ring and the annular support, the ring being extended by a skirt (22) which extends as a projection from the ring to cover an external peripheral wall of the annular support and to exhibit an end face (23) which extends in continuity with a bearing face (24) of the annular support. The invention also relates to a removable cassette for an apparatus for sampling nanoparticles comprising such a filtration assembly.

Abstract: Disclosed is a manually operable volume-adjustable ventilation device. The device includes a reservoir with an inlet mechanism, an outlet mechanism, and a volume adjuster configured to move a volume adjustment limit of the reservoir and change an expressed maximum volume of the reservoir. The reservoir has a body having a plurality of movable walls defining an enclosed volume. The reservoir has an uncompressed state and a compressed state.

Abstract: A CPR template for use by a rescuer in performing CPR includes a pliable mask portion, a pliable body portion and a connecting link that joins the mask portion to the body portion. The mask portion is adapted to be placed over the face of a person, and includes a mouthpiece extending therethrough for use in administering rescue breaths. The body portion has a sternal diagram displayed thereon, and an instructional area in which CPR instructions are displayed.

Abstract: A device and a method for creating and/or maintaining an obstruction free upper airway. The device is configured to fit under the chin of a subject adjacent to the subject's neck at an external location corresponding approximately with the subject's internal soft tissue associated with the neck's anterior triangle. The device is capable of exerting negative pressure on the surface of a subject's neck, displacing the soft tissue forward and enlarging the airway.

Abstract: An elbow assembly for use in a respiratory mask, which includes an elbow, an inlet port, an exhaust port, and a baffle separating the inlet port from the exhaust port. A mask assembly includes a cushion comprising at least one gusset and an aperture for connection to the elbow assembly.

Abstract: Transvascular diaphragm pacing systems (TDPS) and methods are disclosed for providing respiratory therapy to a patient. The TDPS can provide rapid insertion and deployment of endovascular pacing electrodes in critically ill patients who require intubation and invasive PPMV in order to support the physiological requirements of the human ventilatory system. The systems and methods make best use of the contractile properties of the diaphragm muscle and prevent muscle disuse and muscle atrophy. This can be carried out by engaging the phrenic nerves using patterned functional electrical stimulation applied to endovascular electrodes that are temporarily and reversibly inserted in central veins of the patient, such as the left subclavian vein and the superior vena cava.

Abstract: A breath-actuated delivery device includes a mouthpiece through which a subject in use exhales, an air channel which is in fluid communication with the mouthpiece, and a flexible diaphragm which is disposed in the air channel. The diaphragm provides for at least a restricted air flow through the air channel until a predeterminable actuation pressure is developed in the mouthpiece, and, on generation of the predeterminable actuation pressure in the mouthpiece, provides for an air flow through the air channel.

Abstract: Various embodiments provide for a breathing assistance device comprising right and left flanges and a protuberance. The right and left flanges may comprise an inner surface and an outer surface, and the flanges may be configured to be placed in a user's mouth such that at least a portion of the flanges are in front of teeth of the user. The protuberance may extend from the outside surface of the flanges and may define an air passage that passes through the flanges.

Abstract: A collapsible inhalation device for use with a metered dose inhaler (MDI) dispenser includes an outlet end member, an inlet end member and a tubular, pliable, collapsible sleeve member attached at either end to the inlet and outlet members. The outlet end member includes a mouthpiece. The inlet end member includes an inlet port and an MDI dispenser mount structure configured to receive and engage the MDI dispenser. The inhalation device is positionable in each of an open position, wherein the sleeve member defines a chamber, and a closed position, wherein the sleeve member is collapsed and enveloped by the outlet end member and the inlet end member.

Abstract: End-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) measurements may be used alone as a guide to determine when to defibrillate an individual. Alternatively, ETCO2 measurements may be used in combination with amplitude spectral area measurements as a guide to determine when to defibrillate an individual.

Abstract: A low profile CPR mask shaped to fit under the face mask of a victim allows immediate emergency ventilation without requiring the helmet be removed. The mask may be molded to fit ergonomically to a rescuer's palm and be pliable upon the application of moderate force to obtain a tight-fitting mask seal against the victim's face.

Abstract: Breathing assist kits having a cranio-cervical extension device and a strapless breathing mask are presented. The mask comprises a seal that couples the mask to a victim's face preferably using an adhesive gasket that ensures the mask does not become dislodged while a care giver provides assisted breathing. The mask can also include, among other enhancements, a window or a light gathering lens to provide a view into the victim's mouth.

Abstract: A manual lung ventilation device and method suitable for acute manual respiratory resuscitation and lung ventilation of a person are disclosed. The manual lung ventilation device includes a nasal interface in fluid communication with a flexible chamber. The nasal interface being held in the proper position on the person by a headgear and at least one securing device adapted to connect the nasal interface to the headgear. The device may be formed as a single component to allow an operator to rapidly position the device on the person to be ventilated and operate the device with one hand.

Abstract: A headgear (200) for a respiratory mask (202) of a ventilator or CPAP device is provided. The headgear includes a strap portion (204, 206) formed of a substantially inextensible material. The strap portion has formed on one end thereof a connecting structure configured to connect to a mask of the ventilator or CPAP device. One advantage is that the mask will not or at least will be less inclined to lift off the face as mask pressure is increased.

Abstract: The presence of a cardiac pulse in a patient is determined by evaluating physiological signals in the patient. In one embodiment, a medical device evaluates two or more different physiological signals, such as phonocardiogram (PCG) signals, electrocardiogram (ECG) signals, patient impedance signals, piezoelectric signals, and accelerometer signals for features indicative of the presence of a cardiac pulse. Using these features, the medical device determines whether a cardiac pulse is present in the patient. The medical device may also be configured to report whether the patient is in a VF, VT, asystole, or PEA condition, in addition to being in a pulseless condition, and prompt different therapies, such as chest compressions, rescue breathing, defibrillation, and PEA-specific electrotherapy, depending on the analysis of the physiological signals. Auto-capture of a cardiac pulse using pacing stimuli is further provided.

Abstract: A method for regulating gas flows into and out of a patient includes repetitively forcing respiratory gases out of the lungs. Respiratory gases are prevented from entering back into the lungs during a time between when respiratory gases are forced out of the lungs. Periodically, an oxygen-containing gas is supplied to the lungs.

Abstract: A mouth-to-mouth resuscitation device comprising a straight blow-in tube having a proximal side and a distal side, a filter and one way valve on the proximal side for receiving exhaled breath from a mouth of a rescuer, an opening at the distal side for delivering the exhaled breath into the throat of a victim, an inflatable bladder surrounding the straight blow-in tube which, when inflated, assumes a donut shape which has a diameter of about 1.5? to 2.5?, the bladder located on the straight blow-in tube between about 0.75? and 2.0? from the distal opening, an inflation tube in fluid communication with the inside of the inflatable bladder.

Abstract: A flow regulation vent for venting washout gas to atmosphere and for regulating flow from a pressurized gas supply includes a fixed portion adapted to engage a gas supply conduit; a spring force biased movable portion in communication with the pressurized gas supply; and a hinge pivotally connecting the movable portion to the fixed portion. The fixed portion has a gas flow orifice and the movable portion is pivotally movable between 1) a relaxed position, below a specified operating pressure to establish a first gas washout flow area, and 2) a fully pressurized position. At or above the specified operating pressure, the pressurized gas pivots the movable portion adjacent the fixed portion to cover at least a portion of the gas flow orifice and establish a second gas washout flow area. The second gas washout flow area is less than the first gas washout flow area.

Abstract: The presence of a cardiac pulse in a patient is determined by evaluating physiological signals in the patient. In one embodiment, a medical device evaluates two or more different physiological signals, such as phonocardiogram (PCG) signals, electrocardiogram (ECG) signals, patient impedance signals, piezoelectric signals, and accelerometer signals for features indicative of the presence of a cardiac pulse. Using these features, the medical device determines whether a cardiac pulse is present in the patient. The medical device may also be configured to report whether the patient is in a VF, VT, asystole, or PEA condition, in addition to being in a pulseless condition, and prompt different therapies, such as chest compressions, rescue breathing, defibrillation, and PEA-specific electrotherapy, depending on the analysis of the physiological signals. Auto-capture of a cardiac pulse using pacing stimuli is further provided.

Abstract: A cardiopulmonary resuscitation device that combines ventilation of a patient's lungs with chest compressions on the patient's sternum area. The device includes a self-inflating bag having an outlet port through which the content of the bag is forced when bag is compressed; target indicia on the bag to indicate the proper position of the bag on the patient's sternum area and to indicate the proper location on the bag for applying force to the top side thereof; a face mask for placement over the patient's mouth and nose; and a tube extending from the bag to the face mask. The device may include indicia for indicating the amount of pressure applied to the self-inflating bag, and a backboard including belt/motor structure for providing repeated and rapid chest compression and forced ventilation of the patient's lungs.

Abstract: According to one aspect of the present invention, an aerosol inhalation system includes a first conduit member for delivering medication in the form of aerosol particles to a patient. The system also includes a first device in fluid communication with the first holding chamber for producing the aerosol particles and being sealingly yet releasably received within an adapter that forms an entrance into a first holding chamber. The adapter has a compressible material disposed thereon which is at least partially compressed by insertion of the first device to form the seal between the first device and the adapter, thereby creating a closed system that is therefore capable of delivering a fixed concentration of the medication to the patient due to a valve of the valve mechanism being closed when the patient inhales and the medication is delivered to the patient.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention provides a device for decreasing intracranial or intraocular pressures. The device comprises a housing having an inlet opening and an outlet opening that is adapted to be interfaced with a person's airway. The device further includes a valve system that is operable to regulate respiratory gas flows through the housing and into the person's lungs during spontaneous or artificial inspiration. The valve system assists in lowering intrathoracic pressures during each inspiration to repetitively lower pressures in the venous blood vessels that transport blood out of the head to thereby reduce intracranial or intraocular pressures.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention provides a medical method for treating a person and comprises repeatedly compressing the person's chest. While repeatedly compressing the person's chest, the method further includes repeatedly delivering a positive pressure breath to the person and extracting respiratory gases from the person's airway using a vacuum following the positive pressure breath to create an intrathoracic vacuum to lower pressures in the thorax and to enhance blood flow back to the heart.

Abstract: Disclosed is a manually operable volume-adjustable ventilation device. The device includes a reservoir with an inlet mechanism, an outlet mechanism, and a volume adjuster configured to move a volume adjustment limit of the reservoir and change an expressed maximum volume of the reservoir. The reservoir has a body having a plurality of movable walls defining an enclosed volume. The reservoir has an uncompressed state and a compressed state. The walls of the reservoir are movable with respect to each other, such that moving the walls expresses the volume adjustment limit of the reservoir. The walls can be operably connected by movable structures configured such that two adjacent walls are configured to rotate around substantially orthogonal axes with respect to each other when the reservoir moves from an uncompressed to a compressed state. In some embodiments, the movable structures can be hinges, such as snap-fit assembly hinges. Methods of ventilating a patient that involve the device are also disclosed.

Abstract: Breathing assist kits having a cranio-cervical extension device and a strapless breathing mask are presented. The mask comprises a seal that couples the mask to a victim's face preferably using an adhesive gasket that ensures the mask does not become dislodged while a care giver provides assisted breathing.

Abstract: A manual ventilation or resuscitation device is provided. The body of the device has rigid panels that encompass a sealed volume and are movable with respect to each other. The body has a displacement in a direction of a hand displacement and at least one other direction. A size adjuster adjusts the body displacement(s) between the states. A frequency adjuster adjusts the time to restore the volume or to adjust the time to compress the volume. The body provides an ergonomic fit to a user's hand, which reduces fatigue. The volume and/or frequency adjustments provide a user with reliance on a more or less constant tidal volume and tidal rate. Such adjustments allow usage of the device on any patient, regardless of individual factors such as physical condition, body/lung size, age and sex. Multiple devices could easily be stacked or nested with each other, which reduces storage space.

Abstract: An arrangement and method is provided for controlling operational characteristics of medical equipment. A pressure sensor associated with the caregiver is arranged to sense changes in air pressure that correspond to breathing activity of the caregiver. The pressure sensor may comprise a neckband, headset, or the like. In the arrangement shown, a headset that is worn by the caregiver includes a disposable tube connected to a pressure transducer such that the pressure sensor senses changes in air pressure in the tube. An open end of the tube is positioned near the mouth of the caregiver to receive changes in airflow from the caregiver's mouth. The pressure sensor is in communication with a controller associated with the ventilator. The controller is arranged to control at least one operational parameter of the ventilator, such as the delivery of respiratory support to the patient pr actuation of an oxygen flush valve on the ventilator, based upon the changes in air pressure sensed by the pressure sensor.

Abstract: A mouth to mouth resuscitator device for use by a rescuer for resuscitating a victim, the device comprising a sheet of flexible material having a top surface and an undersurface, the sheet forming a mouth opening, a hollow substantially rigid tube having an external surface, a first end, a second end and a tube length between the first and second ends, a tube passage aligned at least in part with the mouth opening, the tube extending from the undersurface of the sheet to the second end and a self closing one-way valve located within the tube passage to restrict flow from the second end to the first end of the tube and to allow flow from the first end to the second end when a rescuer exhales air into the mouth opening, wherein the external surface of the tube forms at least one recess at a location along the tube length, the recess for receiving a victim's teeth.

Abstract: A simple and compact device permits a single rescuer to quickly place a prone patient's airway in an optimal, open configuration. The device consists of a reversibly collapsed neck support that can rapidly be placed underneath the neck of an unconscious patient lying prone on his back. The collapsed support can be inflated to returned it to a not collapsed state for elevating a portion of the patient's neck. The support is shaped to come to an apex so that the pressure is applied to a restricted region of the neck. When gentle elevating pressure is applied to a small region of the neck, the neck “fulcrums” with the head remaining in contact with the ground and the free portion of the neck being elevated. This results in the optimum extension to open the airway without having to pull on the patient's jaw. Once the airway is open, it is relatively simple to place a tight fitting resuscitation mask over the patient's mouth.

Abstract: A respiratory mask includes: a mask cap defining a chamber and a through-hole in fluid communication with the chamber; and a valve unit including a hollow valve body that projects in an axial direction from a periphery of the through-hole in the mask cap and that is formed with a valve seat which defines a valve opening in the valve body. The valve unit further includes an abutting plate that is securely connected to the valve body, and a single-piece elastic block body that is formed with a shoulder abutting sealingly against the valve seat, and that has a bottom end abutting against the abutting plate. The elastic block body is elastically compressible in the axial direction so as to be deformed in the axial direction to thereby space the shoulder apart from the valve seat when pressed by an external force.

Abstract: As disclosed herein, the present invention relates to an improved respirator having a respirator mask, respirator bellows, respirator conduits, and mounting straps attached to the torso of an operator. The respirator mask is positioned over a patient's face so as to cover the nose and mouth. The respirator bellows are positioned under the arms of the operator and are attached to the mounting straps, which may be configured as a vest that can be worn by the operator. The respirator bellows communicate with the respirator mask via the respirator conduits. The operator can deliver air or oxygen to the respirator mask by pumping the respirator bellows with his or her arms. Advantageously, the pumping motion is actuated without the use of hands. The hands-free pumping action allows the operator to firmly secure the respirator mask in proper position on the patient's face with both hands.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention provides a device for decreasing intracranial or intraocular pressures. The device comprises a housing having an inlet opening and an outlet opening that is adapted to be interfaced with a person's airway. The device further includes a valve system that is operable to regulate respiratory gas flows through the housing and into the person's lungs during spontaneous or artificial inspiration. The valve system assists in lowering intrathoracic pressures during each inspiration to repetitively lower pressures in the venous blood vessels that transport blood out of the head to thereby reduce intracranial or intraocular pressures.

Abstract: In one embodiment, a method for modulating a person's autonomic function comprises interfacing a valve system to the person's airway, the valve system being configured to decrease or prevent respiratory gas flow to the person's lungs during at least a portion of an inhalation event. The person is permitted to inhale and exhale through the valve system, wherein during inhalation the valve system functions to produce a vacuum within the thorax to transiently decrease intrathoracic pressure and thereby modulate the person's autonomic function.

Abstract: In one embodiment, the invention provides a device for decreasing intracranial or intraocular pressures. The device comprises a housing having an inlet opening and an outlet opening that is adapted to be interfaced with a person's airway. The device further includes a valve system that is operable to regulate respiratory gas flows through the housing and into the person's lungs during spontaneous or artificial inspiration. The valve system assists in lowering intrathoracic pressures during each inspiration to repetitively lower pressures in the venous blood vessels that transport blood out of the head to thereby reduce intracranial or intraocular pressures.

Abstract: In order to treat snoring and obstructive sleep apnea, the inner respiratory tract is subjected to atmospheric pressure and the outer surrounding area of the respiratory tract is subjected to artificial low-pressure, the difference between the inner atmospheric pressure and the outer low-pressure remaining constant. The respiratory therapy device consists of a pressure stable hollow body which surrounds the human body while keeping free the natural respiratory opening. Set hollow body forms the low-pressure chamber (7) is connected to a suction pump (3) by a suction tube (2). The invention method and respiratory therapy device make it possible to breathe in a free atmosphere.

Abstract: A demonstration device comprises a base having a front side, a back side, a respiratory port, a circulation port, a heart port and at least one lung port. The heart port is fluidly connected to the circulation port, and the lung port is fluidly connected to the respiratory port. A compressible member is sealed to the front side of the base to define a chamber over the lung port and the heart port. A lung member is disposed over the lung port, and a heart member is disposed over the heart port. In this way, when the compressible member is compressed and released, the lung member deflates and inflates and the heart member deflates and inflates.

Abstract: A cardiopulmonary resuscitation device and method that combines artificial, emergency ventilation of a patient's lungs with chest compressions on the patient's sternum area. The device includes a self-inflating bag having a top side, a bottom side, and an outlet port through which the content of the bag is forced when the top side of the bag is pushed toward the bottom side of the bag; target indicia on the self-inflating bag to indicate the proper position of the self-inflating bag on the patient's sternum area and to indicate the proper location on the self-inflating bag for applying force to the top side of the self-inflating bag; a face mask for placement over the patient's mouth and nose; and a tube extending from the outlet port of the self-inflating bag to the face mask.

Abstract: An inflatable resuscitation face mask comprising a top sheet joined to a bottom sheet to form an inflatable pocket which when inflated forms a raised body having an apex and a lower perimeter, wherein inflation means is provided on the mask and an opening at the apex allows air to be administered through the opening to an area underneath the inflated mask.

Abstract: A method for increasing circulation in a breathing person utilizes a valve system that is interfaced to the person's airway and is configured to decrease or prevent respiratory gas flow to the person's lungs during at least a portion of an inhalation event. The person is permitted to inhale and exhale through the valve system. During inhalation, the valve system functions to produce a vacuum within the thorax to increase blood flow back to the right heart of the person, thereby increasing cardiac output and blood circulation.

Abstract: A demonstration device comprises a base having a front side, a back side, a respiratory port, a circulation port, a heart port and at least one lung port. The heart port is fluidly connected to the circulation port, and the lung port is fluidly connected to the respiratory port. A compressible member is sealed to the front side of the base to define a chamber over the lung port and the heart port. A lung member is disposed over the lung port, and a heart member is disposed over the heart port. In this way, when the compressible member is compressed and released, the lung member deflates and inflates and the heart member deflates and inflates.

Abstract: An intake valve includes a bladder having a face piece coupled to one end and an opening formed in the other end, a cover attached to the other end of the bladder and having a port coupled to an air reservoir and having a hub coupled to a container, which may be used for pumping air into the bladder when the air in the air reservoir has been consumed. The cover has a check valve for air to flow into the cover when the container is expanded, and for pumping air into the bladder when the container is squeezed. Another check valve may be used for outward flowing of excess air.

Abstract: A method for administering a drug to a patient comprises coupling a valve system to the patient's airway. The valve system is configured to prevent or impede respiratory gases from flowing into the lungs for at least some time such that the intrathoracic pressure is less than atmospheric pressure. A drug is introduced into the patient, and the intrathoracic pressure is lowered using the valve system to cause blood to flow into the thorax and thereby increasing vital organ perfusion to enhance the circulation of the drug.

Abstract: A manually-operable resuscitator operable also to inject medication into air being supplied to a patient. The said resuscitator has a resiliently compressible air bag having an inlet and an outlet. The inlet has a one-way valve through which air passes into the bag from the atmosphere and a patient valve through which air flows in passing from the bag to the patient. The patient valve has a one-way valve member through which air flows in passing from the bag to the patient. The patient valve also has a passage extending from the atmosphere to the interior thereof adjacent to the one-way valve member and upstream thereof through which medication can be injected into the air as it passes from the bag to the one-way valve member.

Abstract: A resuscitation device for providing a barrier between a rescuer and a patient requiring mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. This resuscitation device includes an inflatable portion which when inflated extends in the breathing direction between the rescuer and the patient so as to be placed around at least one breathing organ of the victim. An inflation member receives airflow from the rescuer to inflate the inflatable portion. In this resuscitation device, a valve assembly permits airflow from the rescuer to the patient and diverts the exhalation and body fluids of the patient from reaching the rescuer. An additional barrier member can also be provided for shielding the rescuer from the patient.

Abstract: A method for increasing circulation in a breathing person utilizes a valve system that is interfaced to the person's airway and is configured to decrease or prevent respiratory gas flow to the person's lungs during at least a portion of an inhalation event. The person is permitted to inhale and exhale through the valve system. During inhalation, the valve system functions to produce a vacuum within the thorax to increase blood flow back to the right heart of the person, thereby increasing cardiac output and blood circulation.