Abstract: A method for aspirating waste fluids from the floor of an operating room. A suction head may be placed on the floor and attached to an available negative pressure source. An elongated handle is selectively engageable with the suction head. The suction head can be selectively translated across the floor or lifted and moved to a pool of waste fluid with accuracy by using the handle. While this step is being done, the length of the elongated handle protects against contamination of the operator's limbs by the fluid falling from the surgical table. The handle is easily disengaged from the suction head when the suction head is positioned in a desirable location. The suction head suctions fluid under its bottom surface. Fluid falling on the top surface of the suction head is captured and directed through peripheral holes for aspiration beneath the suction head. Fluid suctioned through the suction head is then deposited safely in a waste collection chamber.

Abstract: A medical fluid collection canister for collecting fluids from fluid collection devices in surgical procedures. The medical fluid collection canister includes a receptacle, a lid, and an adapter cap. The receptacle includes a generally a floor portion, and a vertical annular wall portion with a top and a bottom. The lid includes a spout and venting hole, and is attached the top of the annular wall portion for maintaining a vacuum-tight connection therebetween. The annular wall portion, the floor portion, and the lid define a canister interior therebetween. The adapter cap is removably coupled to the spout for maintaining a vacuum-tight connection therebetween. The adapter cap includes a fluid collection device portal fluidly coupled to a fluid collection device, and a vacuum attachment portal fluidly coupled to a vacuum generating device. The canister interior preferably has a volume of 15,000 cubic centimeters, and is sized and arranged to be effective for all medical procedures.