Abstract: A method for detecting movement or disconnection of a needle at an access site of a patient comprising: sensing for a presence of blood at the access site while a medical procedure is performed on the patient; separately sensing for a movement of (i) the needle or (ii) tubing connected to the needle; and sending a signal indicating movement or disconnection of the needle if one of (a) the presence of blood is sensed or (b) movement is sensed under (i) or (ii).

Abstract: An optical access disconnect system is useful for detecting the presence of blood. The optical access disconnect system includes one or more optical sensors placed near an access site of a patient, the optical sensors suitable for detecting the presence of blood, especially by detecting a difference in light reflected or absorbed by blood. The optical access disconnect system may also be used as an interlock to assure compliance. A detector may be placed adjacent the access site to detect the access needle, or an object or mark on the access needle or fluid line. A therapy machine, such as a dialysis machine, may be programmed not to start or continue operation unless the needle or fluid line is detected. The detector may be one of the optical sensors, calibrated or adjusted to detect a mark on the needle or access line, or may be another type of detector.

Abstract: An optical access disconnect system is useful for detecting the presence of blood. The optical access disconnect system includes one or more optical sensors placed near an access site of a patient, the optical sensors suitable for detecting the presence of blood, especially by detecting a difference in light reflected or absorbed by blood. The optical access disconnect system may also be used as an interlock to assure compliance. A detector may be placed adjacent the access site to detect the access needle, or an object or mark on the access needle or fluid line. A therapy machine, such as a dialysis machine, may be programmed not to start or continue operation unless the needle or fluid line is detected. The detector may be one of the optical sensors, calibrated or adjusted to detect a mark on the needle or access line, or may be another type of detector.