Importance

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Abstract

A portable, interactive medical electronic device exemplified by a defibrillator. The device obtains information about a patient's condition, such as ECG and transthoracic impedance data, directly from the patient, and information pertinent to the treatment of the patient indirectly through an operator of the device, and produces a medically appropriate action such as a defibrillation shock in response. Indirect information is obtained through information processing means that includes means for prompting the operator of the device and means for receiving the operator's responses thereto. Prompts may include both questions and instructions, and in one embodiment the information processing means obtains the assent of the operator before causing the defibrillation shock. Indirect information may include information as to whether the patient is conscious, and as to whether or not cardiopulmonary resuscitiation has been performed. The ECG and transthroacic impedance data may be collected through a common pair of electrodes. In one embodiment the device produces an indication that the ECG data is invalid if the transthoracic impedance data indicates excessive motion on the part of the patient. When a difibrillation shock is determined to be medically appropriate, a control signal is produced that causes the charging of an energy storage means and the subsequent discharging of such energy storage means through the patient without further operator intervention. The device also includes a tape recorder for allowing later analysis of the use of the device, and means for holding the tape recorder drive means in a disengaged position until the device is opened for use. The device also includes testing means for enabling a person to test the condition of the device without opening the case in which it is enclosed, means for producing and recording a distinctive sound when and if a defibrillation pulse is delivered, and means for allowing the electrodes to be quickly disconnected so that emergency personnel can conveniently use the electrodes with their own equipment.

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First Claim