Abstract:
A packaging system for a fetal electrode assembly. The assembly includes an electrode (20) which can be attached to a fetus. The electrode is coupled to an electrode wire (26). The electrode wire extends through a drive tube (30) and terminates in a connector end (32). A flexible guide tube (40) receives the drive tube. The packaging system includes a handle (50) and a clip (80). The handle is attached to the rearward end (56) of the drive tube. The handle has a forward section (52) which detachably mounts inside the rearward end of the guide tube. The handle also has a passage (58) for receiving the connector end and a slot (68) for securing the electrode wire when the electrode is not in use. The electrode projects from the forward end of the guide tube when the forward section (52) of the handle is mounted inside the rearward end of the guide tube. The clip has a head (90) mounted to the handle and a tail (84) which is wedged between the rearward end of the guide tube (40) and the rearward end of the drive tube to secure the handle when the forward section of the handle is not mounted inside the rearward end of the guide tube. The electrode is retracted into and protected by the guide tube when the handle is secured by the clip.
Abstract:
A disposable blood pressure transducer system for use with a catheter with or without a catheter flush/flow valve. The transducer housing has both electrical and fluid connections, with the electrical connections being protected from contamination by fluid.
Abstract:
An intrauterine pressure catheter system for monitoring pressure in the uterus of a mother during labor and delivery. The system includes a reusable junction box (12) with a needle communicating directly to a pressure transducer sensor. The sensor transmits changes in pressure to a conventional pressure monitor. A connector (32) attached to the catheter (22) is pushed into the junction box (12) and is held in place by a plastic latch (38). Inside this connector (32) are an elastomeric plug and an adjacent diaphragm. When the connector is installed in the junction box (12), the needle pierces the plug and the tip enters the air-filled volume between the plug and the diaphragm. Fluid pressure in the catheter (22) is communicated to the diaphragm surface and, in turn, passed to the air in the volume between the diaphragm and the plug. Thus, the intrauterine pressure is transmitted directly to the sensor. The system may be zeroed to atmosphere by simply removing the connector from the junction box (12).
Abstract:
A disposable blood pressure transducer system for use with a catheter with or without a catheter flush/flow valve. The transducer housing has both electrical and fluid connections, with the electrical connections being protected from contamination by fluid.