Abstract: A retaining clip for retaining reagent test slides in a stacked arrangement includes a first assembly having a first cover plate and at least two parallel, co-planar rails extending transversely from an inner surface of the first cover plate. A second assembly includes a second cover plate, and a rail receiving platform extending transversely from an inner surface of the second cover plate. The first cover plate and the second cover plate define between them a space for receiving the plurality of reagent test slides. The rails of the first assembly include ratchet teeth, and the rail receiving platform of the second assembly includes pawls. The pawls engage the ratchet teeth to prevent the separation of the first assembly and the second assembly and to securely but removably hold the plurality of reagent test slides in a stacked arrangement between the first and second cover plates.

Abstract: An improved cartridge and method of dispensing test elements therefrom, which seals off the elements from exposure to the atmosphere. The cartridge includes, at its end apertured to eject test elements, a cover plate, said plate optionally being biased into contact with the end-most test element to cover the fluid opening provided in all such test elements. To dispense that end-most element, a pusher blade engages and ejects the element as in conventional cartridges. Optionally, the opposite end of the cartridge is sealed with a duck-bill seal.