| abstract |
An apparatus for determining the concentration of a medically significant component of a biological sample, the apparatus including first and second keys for use in operating the apparatus, the keys extending from a common support mounted in the apparatus, each of the keys having a reduced cross sectional hinge portion adjacent to the common support whereby substantially independent activation of the first and second keys is provided. Also described is an instrument for determining the concentration of a medically significant component of a sample, the instrument including a controller, at least one key for the entry of information by a user, and a display for displaying results of tests to determine the concentration of the medically significant component of a sample, the controller coupled to the at least one key and to the display to permit the user to enter into the controller a first user-defined range of values for the concentration of the medically significant component of the sample, the display displaying the first user-defined range, and the controller producing an indication during a subsequent determination of the concentration whether the subsequently determined concentration falls within the first user-defined range. |