Abstract: An apparatus and method for protecting at least one component of a light source are provided. The apparatus includes a shield for the component, with this shield having a plurality of locations that are substantially transparent to an emission wave length of the light source. The shield is positioned such that during use of the light source, one of the substantially transparent locations of the shield is disposed between the at least one component of the light source and an object that is to be irradiated. The apparatus also includes a mechanism for advancing the shield upon activation of the light source or an element thereof in order to be able to dispose a different one of the substantially transparent locations of the shield between the at least one component of the light source and an object that is to be irradiated.

Abstract: A lens shield system for shielding a laser source of a system used for collecting capillary blood or fluid from skin, the lens shield comprising a strap apparatus releasably emplaceable around a member of a living being, the member having skin thereon and blood therein, and a lens shield member connected to the strap and disposed for receiving and for transmission therethrough of a laser beam from the laser source directed at the skin. A removable lens shield for shielding a laser source of a collection system used for perforating skin and collecting blood or fluid therein or therebeneath, the collection system in a housing, the lens shield comprising a body sized and configured for removable emplacement in the housing of the collection system between the laser source and the skin, and a window in the body through which the laser beam is transmissible prior to contacting the skin. A method for collecting fluid from a living being has been invented which uses the devices mentioned above.