Abstract: A lancet injector is provided having a lancet tip that may be automatically removed from the lancet injector after piercing and being retracted from the skin of the subject. A separation recess extends from the slot along the housing toward the proximal end of the housing allowing the control member to move proximally into the separation recess. The separation recess has a proximally extending retention recess that retains the lancet holder in its most proximal position. The lancet holder has a bore extending longitudinally through it aligned with the central axis of the housing. A pin extends from the proximal end of the housing along the central axis of the housing toward the central bore of the holder. The control member moves into the separation recess causing the pin to enter the bore of the lancet holder and contact the lancet.

Abstract: A blood sampling kit and the method of using the blood sampling kit are disclosed wherein an arterial blood gas syringe having a venting means associated therewith is used in combination with a blood collection tube holder having a double ended needle mounted therein and a stopper assembly consisting generally of a cylindrical member with a central opening and a flexible diaphragm member extending across the opening such that the stopper assembly and syringe assembly are inserted into the blood collection tube holder to obtain a blood sample from a patient in the syringe assembly and, once the blood sample is obtained, the syringe assembly and stopper assembly are removed from the blood collection tube holder and the stopper assembly protects the blood sample from exposure to the atmosphere.