Importance

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Abstract

A sterile and disposable cover for the prism of an applanation tonometer or similar device functions to preclude the transfer of microorganisms from the eye of a patient to the prism during an examination. The prism is a rearwardly diverging frustoconical configured member with a flat forwardly disposed face, and the cover includes a conformable barrier and a removable holder. The cover has a body of substantially optically transparent material for deposition upon the flat forwardly disposed face; and a side portion contiguous with the body portion. The side portion clings resiliently to the prism wall forming a seal therewith. Optionally, there are provided tab portions attached to the outer edges of the side portion, which tabs faciltate the removal of the disposable cover. The removable holder is used for depositing the barrier upon the holder includes a carrier strip releasably adhered to the barrier, with an aperture in the carrier strip for exposing the body portion and for receiving the face of the prism. This enables insertion of the prism through the aperture so that the face is emplaced on the body portion of the cover. To maintain sterility, an aperture cover is removably secured to the carrier strip on the side opposite the barrier. The aperture cover is demountable from the barrier and may be demounted without disturbing the mechanical barrier. Further, a sterile seal attached to the carrier strip completes the safeguarding of the barrier.

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First Claim