Abstract: A fluid transport assembly, comprising a cannula spaced apart from a needle, with the cannula and needle lying along the same longitudinal axis and separated by a rigid needle housing assembly is provided. The cannula and the first end of the needle housing assembly are adapted for mating engagement with a catheter prepositioned in a blood vessel of a patient. The needle and second end of the needle housing assembly are adapted for engagement with a standardized collection container, with the container preferably supported by a holder which is threadably secured to threads positioned in the second end of the needle housing assembly. The cannula is made of a flexible material and is provided with a non-cutting tip; the needle is made of a rigid material and is provided with a cutting tip. The present invention is adapted for use at an intravenous insertion site, thereby obviating the necessity for a second needle insertion site.