Abstract: A disposable seal is provided at the connection between an insertion needle and associated VACUTAINER holder when drawing blood from a patient during a phlebotomy procedure. The seal comprises an outer absorbent layer, and successive layers of sealing plastic film, an adhesive layer, and a removable inner layer of film for exposing the adhesive layer for attachment to the VACUTAINER holder. Prior to use, the disposable seal is mounted on the VACUTAINER holder along the adhesive layer and the insertion needle is pierced through the sealing portion of the plastic film and threaded into the VACUTAINER holder. A portion of the sealing plastic layer of film is partially detached by the insertion needle and wraps around the threaded portion of the VACUTAINER holder to improve the seal between the needle, and any small amount of blood leakage will be absorbed by the outer absorbent layer of the seal. The VACUTAINER holder can then be reused, using standard sterilization procedures.

Abstract: A blood collection system is provided for collecting multiple samples of blood into evacuated vials from a single needle insertion site, and comprises a capillary tube system which acts as a regulator so that samples of blood can be collected at a controlled rate, thereby reducing the risk of vein collapse or other patient trauma. The capillary tube system includes a flexible catheter which mounts an intravenous cannula which can be positioned within a blood vessel from which is drawn the blood sample. A plurality of fittings are located along the length of the capillary tube system, and define openings for interfitting needles, which lie within a series of bores that extend axially from the blood collection system. Samples of blood are taken by inserting covered, evacuated vials into the bores of the blood collection system until a needle pierces the cover of a vial.