Importance

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Abstract

A portable early warning device for use in detection of breaches in protective garments such as gloves, during surgical procedures and the like. The device embodies a central process and source unit containing sensing wave generator, indicators, driving circuitry, digital analyzing and monitoring circuitry and a power source. The central process and source unit is separately directly connected to the object, e.g. skin of the patient, and to the device carrier, e.g. skin of the surgeon, via standard wires and EKG type terminal connectors. A conductive breach of protective garments such as surgical gloves with in vivo patient fluids, such as blood (of a possibly hazardous nature), completes a circuit and triggers a warning (either visible, audible, or mechanical) of the breach. The driving and monitoring circuitry, which generates a pulse specific current, prevents spurious signals despite the heightened sensitivity required by the device for triggering and the presence of numerous electronic devices, with emitting electrical discharges, which are present in operating rooms. The device is provided with self diagnostic monitoring means to ensure proper over-all hook-up; separate proper connection to each of the surgeon and patient; sufficient battery power; and proper operation.

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First Claim