Oximeter sensor with digital memory encoding patient data

Abstract

The present invention provides a memory chip for use in an oximeter sensor, or an associated adapter or connector circuit. The memory chip allows the storing of patient related data, such as patient trending data or a patient ID, to provide enhanced capabilities for the oximeter sensor. In addition to providing unique data to store in such a memory, the present invention include unique uses of the data stored in such a memory.

What is claimed is:  
     
         1 . An oximeter sensor comprising: 
 a light emitting element;    a light detecting element; and    a memory device for storing digital data, said digital data comprising a patient identification code.    
     
     
         2 . An oximeter sensor comprising: 
 a light emitting element;    a light detecting element; and    a memory device for storing digital data, said digital data comprising a length of time that a patient has been monitored using the oximeter sensor.    
     
     
         3 . An oximeter sensor comprising: 
 a light emitting element;    a light detecting element; and    a memory device for storing digital data, said digital data comprising a time when an oximeter monitor coupled to the oximeter sensor was turned on or turned off.    
     
     
         4 . A method for storing data in an oximeter sensor, the method comprising: 
 emitting light from a light emitting element;    detecting light from the light emitting element using a photodetector; and    storing digitally encoded data in a memory in the sensor, the digitally encoded data including a patient ID; and    tracking patient information using the patient ID.    
     
     
         5 . A method for storing data in an oximeter sensor, the method comprising: 
 emitting light from a light emitting element;    detecting light from the light emitting element using a photodetector; and    storing digitally encoded data in a memory in the sensor, the digitally encoded data comprising a time when an oximeter monitor coupled to the oximeter sensor was turned on or turned off in the memory.    
     
     
         6 . A method for storing data in an oximeter sensor, the method comprising: 
 emitting light from a light emitting element;    detecting light from the light emitting element using a photodetector; and    storing digitally encoded data in a memory in the sensor, the digitally encoded data comprising a duration of time that a patient has been monitored using said oximeter sensor.