Method and Pulse Oximeter Apparatus Using Chemical Heating

摘要

Method and apparatus for providing reliable blood oxygen (Sa02) and heart rate measurements includes a chemical energy heating source in conjunction with a harness that is adapted to secure the chemical energy heating source and a pulse oximeter probe proximate to a region of the body which is to be warmed prior to measurement. Preferably, the chemical energy heating source is in the form a mixture including a metal powder, which releases heat at a predetermined rate via oxidation of the metal powder when exposed to the atmosphere. The apparatus may be designed to be reusable or disposable and can be used in a transmission or reflectance mode, or both.

主权项

1. A pulse oximeter apparatus, comprising:
a) a harness including first and second sections; b) a probe operably secured to said harness; c) one of said first and second sections including a pocket for accommodating a source of chemical heating; and d) said one of said first and second sections being made of an air permeable material so as to allow the air to come in contact with said chemical heating source and release heat.