General purpose transport adapter and method of use thereof

Abstract

An apparatus includes a housing defining an interior volume, a distal coupler at least temporarily coupled to a distal portion of the housing and configured to be placed in fluid communication with a source of bodily fluid, a fluid communicator disposed in the interior volume, and a lock coupled to the housing. The lock is transitionable between a first configuration in which the lock couples the distal coupler to the housing such that a portion of the fluid communicator extends through a seal of the distal coupler to place the distal coupler in fluid communication with a proximal portion of the housing, and a second configuration in which the lock permits removal of the distal coupler. The lock is configured to be transitionable back to the first configuration after removal of the distal coupler to restrict access to the fluid communicator via the distal portion of the housing.

Description

[0001] Cross-reference to related applications

[0002] This application claims priority and benefit to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 986,244, filed March 6, 2020, entitled “Universal Transfer Adapters and Methods of Using the Same,” which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Background Technology

[0003] The embodiments described herein generally relate to the acquisition of bodily fluid samples, and more specifically to fluid transfer adapters configured to reduce sources of contamination at contact points.

[0004] Healthcare practitioners routinely use non-enteric body fluids to perform various types of microbiological and other extensive diagnostic tests on patients. With the development and improvement of bacterial culture tests and / or other advanced diagnostic techniques, the speed, accuracy (sensitivity and specificity), and value of the information available to clinicians are constantly increasing. Examples of diagnostic techniques that may rely on high-quality (uncontaminated and / or unadulterated) body fluid samples may include, but are not limited to, microbiological detection (e.g., culture tests), molecular diagnostics (e.g., molecular polymerase chain reaction (PCR), gene sequencing (e.g., deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), ribonucleic acid (RNA), whole blood (“culture-free”) specimen analysis and related techniques or next-generation sequencing (NGS)), biomarker identification, magnetic resonance and other magnetic analysis platforms, automated microscopy, spatial clonal isolation, flow cytometry, cell morphodynamic analysis, and / or other commonly used or advanced / evolving techniques for characterizing patient specimens and / or for detecting, identifying, typing, classifying, and / or characterizing specific organisms, antibiotic susceptibility, and / or similar substances).

[0005] However, some known testing and / or diagnostic techniques can be susceptible to contamination, which can lead to inaccurate, distorted, adulterated, false positives, false negatives, and / or other items that do not represent the patient's actual condition (or in vivo condition). One reason for such inaccurate test results is the presence of biological material, which may include cells from sources other than the intended sample source and / or other external contaminants unintentionally present in the analyzed bodily fluid sample. For example, despite disinfection and preparation of the skin at the insertion site, during venipuncture, tiny tissue fragments, hair follicles, sweat glands, and / or other skin appendages, and / or microorganisms residing thereon (“dermal parasites”) may detach and be transferred to and / or otherwise included in the specimen to be analyzed, thereby contaminating the sample and / or potentially distorting the results of one or more tests performed on the sample.

[0006] While some known devices and / or systems can reduce the likelihood of contamination, for example, by diverting and isolating the initial volume of bodily fluids (which are more likely to contain contaminants), other potential sources of contamination may remain. For instance, some sample acquisition instruments, supplies, and / or systems may include multiple user and / or fluid interfaces (e.g., patient-to-needle, needle-to-transfer adapter, transfer adapter-to-sample container, catheter hub-to-syringe, syringe-to-transfer adapter, needle / fitting-to-sample container, and / or any other fluid interface or any combination thereof), which may introduce additional potential points of contamination (e.g., “contact point contamination”). Furthermore, some sample acquisition instruments (such as, for example, transfer adapters and / or the like) may be designed for use with specific supplies, sample containers, culture flasks, etc., which can reduce standardization and increase the likelihood of inappropriate, inefficient, contaminated, and / or unsafe use.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for improved equipment, systems and / or methods and / or instruments for obtaining body fluid samples to reduce contamination of body fluid samples (e.g., contact point contamination). Summary of the Invention

[0008] This document describes devices and methods for a universal transmission adapter configured to reduce contamination sources, such as contact point contamination. In some embodiments, a device includes a housing, a distal connector, a fluid communication device, and a lock. The housing has a proximal portion and a distal portion and defines an internal volume. The distal connector is at least temporarily coupled to the distal portion of the housing and is configured to be in fluid communication with a source of bodily fluids. The fluid communication device is disposed within the internal volume of the housing. The lock is coupled to the housing and is switchable between a first configuration and a second configuration, in which the lock engages the distal connector to the housing such that a portion of the fluid communication device extends through a seal of the distal connector to place the distal connector in fluid communication with the proximal portion of the housing; in a second configuration, the lock allows removal of the distal connector. The lock is configured to switch back from the second configuration to the first configuration after removal of the distal connector to restrict access to the fluid communication device via the distal portion of the housing. Attached Figure Description

[0009] Figure 1A and Figure 1B This is a schematic diagram of a transmission adapter in a first configuration and a second configuration according to an embodiment.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a perspective view of a transmission adapter connected to a fluid collection device according to an embodiment.

[0011] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Front view of the transmission adapter and fluid collection device.

[0012] Figure 4 yes Figure 2 A pre-explosion view of the transmission adapter and fluid collection device.

[0013] Figure 5 The image is a cross-sectional view of the transmission adapter and fluid collection device of Figure 1, taken along line 5-5 and shown as the first configuration.

[0014] Figure 6 It is cut along line 6-6 and shown as the first configuration. Figure 2 Cross-sectional view of the transmission adapter and fluid collection device.

[0015] Figure 7 and Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of a transmission adapter, illustrating its various internal features.

[0016] Figure 9 This is a front view of the transfer adapter connected to the fluid collection device and which has been changed from the first configuration to the second configuration.

[0017] Figure 10 yes Figure 9 A cross-sectional view of the transmission adapter and fluid collection device, showing the connector of the transmission adapter removed from the housing of the transmission adapter.

[0018] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the transmission adapter according to an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 12 and Figure 13 yes Figure 11 The cross-sectional view of the transmission adapter is shown in the first state and the second state, respectively.

[0020] Figure 14-16 This is an illustration of a portion of a transmission adapter with various configurations, each according to a different embodiment.

[0021] Figure 17-27 This is an illustration of a portion of a transmission adapter having one or more features configured to protect a user from accidental and / or unintended contact with the fluid communication interface of the transmission adapter, each feature being according to a different embodiment.

[0022] Figure 28-34 This is an illustration of a portion of a transmission adapter having one or more features configured to provide and / or enhance the user interface of the transmission adapter, each feature being according to a different embodiment.

[0023] Figure 35 This is a flowchart illustrating a method of using a transmission adapter according to an embodiment.

[0024] Figure 36 This is a cross-sectional view of a portion of a syringe, including, for example, an integral adapter, according to an embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0025] This document describes devices and methods for universal transfer adapters configured to reduce sources of contamination, such as contact point contamination. Any embodiments and / or methods described herein can be configured to transfer bodily fluids while reducing the number of user and / or fluid interfaces (which could otherwise be potential sources of contamination). The embodiments and / or methods described herein can also simplify and / or standardize at least a portion of the sample or specimen acquisition process, which can increase efficiency and predictability associated with sample or specimen collection. Furthermore, the embodiments and / or methods described herein can increase user safety by limiting and / or reducing the likelihood of unintentional "pinpricks" (e.g., unwanted needle pricks on the skin) and / or other undesirable contact with bodily fluids or non-sterile (e.g., used) portions of the device.

[0026] In some embodiments, a device includes a housing, a distal connector, a fluid communication device, and a lock. The housing has a proximal portion and a distal portion and defines an internal volume. The distal connector is at least temporarily coupled to the distal portion of the housing and is configured to be in fluid communication with a source of bodily fluid. The fluid communication device is disposed within the internal volume of the housing. The lock is coupled to the housing and is switchable between a first configuration and a second configuration, in which the lock engages the distal connector to the housing such that a portion of the fluid communication device extends through a seal of the distal connector to place the distal connector in fluid communication with the proximal portion of the housing; in a second configuration, the lock allows removal of the distal connector. The lock is configured to switch back from the second configuration to the first configuration after removal of the distal connector to restrict access to the fluid communication device via the distal portion of the housing.

[0027] In some embodiments, a device includes a housing, a fluid communication device, a stage, and a biasing member. The housing has a proximal portion and a distal portion, and defines an internal volume. The proximal portion has a proximal connector. The fluid communication device is disposed within the internal volume of the housing and fluidly coupled to the proximal connector. The stage is disposed within the housing and movable between a first position and a second position. The biasing member is disposed within the housing and contacts the proximal side of the stage. The biasing member is configured to bias the stage in the first position such that the stage substantially prevents access to the fluid communication device via the distal portion of the housing. The biasing member allows the stage to move to a second position in response to a force applied to the distal side of the stage, such that a portion of the fluid communication device extends through the stage, thereby allowing access to the fluid communication device via the distal portion of the housing.

[0028] In some embodiments, the transmission adapter includes a housing having a proximal portion and a distal portion. A proximal connector is disposed along the proximal portion of the housing. The transmission adapter also includes a fluid communication device disposed within an internal volume of the housing and fluidly coupled to the proximal connector. In some implementations, the method of using the transmission adapter includes coupling a fluid collection device to the proximal connector of the transmission adapter. A lock coupled to the distal portion of the housing changes from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration. A worktable disposed within the internal volume of the housing moves from a first position to a second position, in which the worktable restricts access to the fluid communication device via the distal portion of the housing, and in the second position, at least a portion of the fluid communication device extends through the worktable. When the worktable is in the second position, bodily fluid flow is allowed to flow through the fluid communication device into or out of the fluid collection device coupled to the proximal connector via the fluid communication device.

[0029] As used in this specification and / or any claims included herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly specifies otherwise. Thus, for example, the term “a component” means a single component or a combination of components, “a material” means one or more materials, and / or the like.

[0030] As used herein, “body fluid” can include any fluid obtained directly or indirectly from the patient’s body. For example, “body fluid” includes, but is not limited to, blood, cerebrospinal fluid, urine, bile, lymph, saliva, synovial fluid, serous fluid, pleural fluid, amniotic fluid, mucus, sputum, vitreous humor, air and / or similar substances, or any combination thereof.

[0031] As used herein, the terms “proximal” and “distal” refer to the directions closer to and farther from the user when the device is placed in contact with the patient, respectively. Thus, for example, the end of the device that first contacts the patient’s body will be the distal end of the device, while the other end of the device (e.g., the end of the device that the user is operating) will be the proximal end of the device.

[0032] As used herein, the terms “approximately,” “approximately,” and / or “substantially” when used in connection with labeled values ​​and / or geometries or relationships are intended to express that the value or feature defined is nominally the labeled value or the described feature. In some cases, the terms “approximately,” “approximately,” and / or “substantially” may generally mean and / or generally be considered to be labeled values ​​or features within an ideal tolerance range (e.g., plus or minus 10% of the labeled value or feature). For example, a value of approximately 0.01 may include 0.009 and 0.011, a value of approximately 0.5 may include 0.45 and 0.55, a value of approximately 10 may include 9 to 11, and a value of approximately 1000 may include 900 to 1100. Similarly, when surfaces are nominally parallel, a first surface may be described as substantially parallel to a second surface. While the labeled values, structures, and / or relationships may be ideal, it should be understood that some differences may occur due to, for example, manufacturing tolerances or other practical considerations (such as pressure or force applied, for example, through a part of a device, conduit, lumen, etc.). Therefore, the terms “approximately,” “about,” and / or “substantially” may be used herein to describe these tolerances and / or considerations.

[0033] The embodiments described herein can be configured to transfer substantially uncontaminated bodily fluids to one or more fluid collection devices. As used herein, a “fluid collection device” may include, but is not limited to, any suitable vessel, container, reservoir, bottle, adapter, tray, vial, syringe, device, needle, device with defined lumen (e.g., sterile tubing), diagnostic and / or testing machine, and / or the like. In some embodiments, the fluid collection device may be substantially similar to or identical to a known sample container, such as, for example, a Vacutainer. (Manufactured by Becton Dickinson and Company (BD), BacT / ALERT) SN or BacT / ALERT FA (manufactured by Biomerieux, Inc.) and / or any suitable reservoir, vial, micro-bottle, microliter, nanoliter, container, microcontainer, nanocontainer and / or the like.

[0034] In some embodiments, the fluid collection device (such as, for example, a sample reservoir, container, bottle, etc.) may be empty of any contents before receiving a sample volume of bodily fluid. For example, in some embodiments, the fluid collection device or reservoir may be defined and / or configured to define or generate a vacuum or suction, such as, for example, a vacuum-based collection tube (e.g., a vacuum pump). In other embodiments, the fluid collection device may include any suitable additives, culture media, substances, enzymes, oils, fluids, and / or the like. For example, the fluid collection device may be a sample or culture bottle, including, for example, aerobic or anaerobic culture media. The sample or culture bottle may receive a body fluid sample and then test it (e.g., after incubation and via in vitro diagnostic (IVD) tests and / or any other suitable tests) to determine the presence of, for example, Gram-positive bacteria, Gram-negative bacteria, yeast, fungi, and / or any other organism. If such a culture medium test result is positive, the culture medium can subsequently be tested using a PCR-based system to identify the specific organism. In some embodiments, as a supplement to or alternative to the culture medium, the sample reservoir may include, for example, any suitable additives or the like. These additives may include, for example, heparin, citrate, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA), oxalate, sodium polyethanolsulfonate (SPS), and / or the like. In some embodiments, the fluid collection device may include any suitable additives or culture media and may be evacuated and / or otherwise purged of air.

[0035] Generally, the term "culture medium" can be used to describe a substance configured to react with organisms (e.g., microorganisms such as bacteria) in body fluids, while the term "additive" can be used to describe a substance configured to react with portions of body fluids (e.g., constituent cells of blood, serum, synovial fluid, etc.). However, it should be understood that sample reservoirs can include any suitable substance, liquid, solid, powder, lyophilized compound, gas, etc. Furthermore, when referring to "additives" within a sample reservoir, it should be understood that additives can be or can include culture media, such as aerobic and / or anaerobic media contained in culture flasks, additives, and / or any other suitable substance or combination of substances contained in culture flasks and / or any other suitable reservoir as described above. That is, the embodiments described herein can be used with any suitable fluid reservoir or the like containing any suitable substance or combination of substances.

[0036] The embodiments and / or portions thereof described herein may be formed or constituted by one or more biocompatible materials. In some embodiments, biocompatible materials may be selected based on one or more properties of the constituent materials, such as stiffness, toughness, hardness, bioreactivity, etc. Examples of suitable biocompatible materials include metals, glass, ceramics, elastomers, thermoplastics, polymers, and / or the like. Examples of suitable metals include stainless steel for medical workbenches, gold, titanium, nickel, iron, platinum, tin, chromium, copper, and / or alloys thereof. A polymer material may be biodegradable or non-biodegradable. Examples of suitable biodegradable polymers include polylactic acid, polyethylene glycol, polylactic acid-coethylene glycol (PLGA), polyanhydride, polyorthoester, polyether ester, polycaprolactone, polyamide, poly(butyric acid), poly(valeric acid), polyurethane, and / or blends and copolymers thereof. Examples of non-biodegradable polymers include nylon, polyester, polycarbonate, polyacrylate, polysiloxane (silicone), ethylene-vinyl acetate and other acyl-substituted cellulose acetate polymers, non-biodegradable polyurethane, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride, polyvinyl alcohol, poly(vinylimidazolium), chlorosulfonate polyolefin, polyethylene, polyethylene oxide, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), and / or blends and copolymers thereof.

[0037] The embodiments and / or portions thereof described herein may include components formed from one or more parts, features, structures, etc. When referring to these components, it should be understood that they may be formed from a single component having any number of segments, regions, portions, and / or features, or from multiple parts or features. For example, when referring to a structure, such as a wall or chamber, the structure may be considered as a single structure having multiple parts, or multiple, different substructures or the like joined together to form the structure. Thus, a monolithically constructed structure may include, for example, a set of substructures. Such a set of substructures may include multiple parts that are continuous or discontinuous with each other. A set of substructures may also be made from multiple articles or components that are manufactured separately and then joined together (e.g., via welding, adhesives, or any suitable method).

[0038] The embodiments and / or various features or advantageous details thereof described herein are explained more fully with reference to the non-limiting embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings and detailed in the description below. Descriptions of known components and processing techniques have been omitted to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the embodiments herein. The examples used herein are intended to facilitate an understanding of how the embodiments described herein may be practiced and to further enable those skilled in the art to practice the embodiments described herein. While some embodiments described herein are for obtaining bodily fluids for one or more culture sample tests, it should be understood that these embodiments are not limited to this purpose. Any embodiments and / or methods described herein can be used to transfer bodily fluid streams to any suitable device placed in fluid communication with it. Therefore, while specific examples are described herein, the devices, methods, and / or concepts are not intended to be limited to these specific examples.

[0039] Refer to the attached diagram. Figure 1A and Figure 1B The illustration shows a transfer device 100 according to an embodiment. The transfer device 100 (also referred to herein as a “transfer adapter,” “adapter,” and / or “device”) can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. In some implementations, the transfer adapter 100 is configured to transfer bodily fluids while reducing the number of user and / or fluid interfaces (which could otherwise be potential sources of contamination). More specifically, in some implementations, the transfer adapter 100 can be coupled to a fluid collection device (or any other suitable device) and used to transfer bodily fluids from a source (e.g., a bodily fluid source, such as a patient’s vein) to the fluid collection device. Furthermore, the transfer adapter 100 can be used to transfer at least a portion of bodily fluids from the fluid collection device to a second collection device or container (e.g., a sample bottle, culture flask, and / or the like).

[0040] As shown, the transmission adapter 100 includes a housing 110, a fluid connector 130, a lock 150, and a workbench 140. The housing 110 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. In some embodiments, the size and / or shape of the housing 110 may be at least in part based on the size and / or shape of one or more devices configured for use in conjunction with the transmission adapter 100, as described in further detail herein. The housing 110 includes a proximal portion 111 and a distal portion 112, defining an internal volume. The proximal portion 111 of the housing 110 is substantially open and is sized and configured to receive and / or be configured for direct or indirect physical and / or fluid coupling to one or more devices, such as, for example, fixed or removable connectors, fluid collection devices, fluid transfer devices, needles, and / or the like. For example, the proximal portion 111 of the housing 110 may be coupled to a proximal connector and / or may include a proximal connector, which may in turn be at least temporarily coupled to a fluid collection device. For example, the proximal connector can be physically and fluidly coupled to the syringe's connector or coupling via a threaded connector, Luer connector, and / or any other suitable connection. In other embodiments, the proximal connector can be fixedly coupled to or connected to the syringe's connector (e.g., one-piece or integrally molded, pre-assembled, and / or similar) and / or any other suitable means.

[0041] The proximal portion 111 of the housing 110 (or its proximal connector) may be in fluid communication with a fluid connector 130 disposed within the internal volume of the housing 110. Accordingly, when the proximal portion 111 of the housing 110 (or its proximal connector) is coupled to the syringe, operation of the syringe may result in a negative pressure differential and / or suction force operable to aspirate fluid (e.g., bodily fluid) through the transfer adapter 100 (e.g., via the fluid connector 130) and approach the syringe, or may result in a positive pressure differential and / or force operable to expel fluid (e.g., bodily fluid) from the syringe and discharge it through the transfer adapter 100 (e.g., via the fluid connector 130).

[0042] In some implementations, the proximal portion 111 of the housing 110 (or its proximal connector) may be directly or indirectly coupled to a source of bodily fluid. For example, in some implementations, the proximal portion 111 of the housing 110 may include a proximal connector, such as a Luer lock or the like, which may be coupled to a corresponding connector of a needle, a cavity device and / or the like, or a combination thereof. In this implementation, the proximal connector may receive a flow of bodily fluid from the source, which may then be transmitted via the fluid communication device 130 through the transmission adapter 100. In some implementations, the proximal connector (or the proximal portion 111 of housing 110) may be directly or indirectly coupled to transmission, diversion, and / or isolation devices, such as, for example, U.S. Patent No. 8,197,420 (“'420 Patent”), filed December 13, 2007, entitled “Systems and Methods for Parenterally Procuring Bodily-Fluid Samples with Reduced Contamination”; U.S. Patent No. 8,535,241 (“'241 Patent”), filed October 22, 2012, entitled “Fluid Diversion Mechanism for Bodily-Fluid Sampling”; and U.S. Patent No. 241 (“'241 Patent”), filed September 23, 2014, entitled “Fluid Diversion Mechanism for Bodily-Fluid…”. U.S. Patent No. 9,022,950 (“'950 Patent”), filed September 18, 2014, entitled “Methods and Apparatus for Selectively Occluding the Lumen of a Needle”; U.S. Patent No. 9,788,774 (“'774 Patent”), filed October 9, 2013, entitled “Systems and Methods for Delivering a Fluid to a Patent with Reduced Contamination”; U.S. Patent No. 9,204,864 (“'864 Patent”), filed July 29, 2013, entitled “Fluid Diversion Mechanism for Bodily-Fluid Sampling”; and U.S. Patent Publication No. 10, filed November 20, 2017, entitled “Systems and Methods for Sample Collection with Reduced Hemolysis”.U.S. Patent Publication No. 2018 / 0140240 (“'240 Publication”), filed June 11, 2018, entitled “Fluid Control Devices and Methods of Using the Same” (“'117 Publication”); U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019 / 0076074 (“'074 Publication”), filed September 12, 2018, entitled “Fluid Control Devices and Methods of Using the Same” (“Fluid Control Devices and Methods of Using the Same”); U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019 / 0175087 (“'087 Publication”), filed December 7, 2018, entitled “Fluid Control Devices and Methods of Using the Same” (“Fluid Control Devices and Methods of Using the Same”); U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019 / 0175087 (“'087 Publication”), filed May 30, 2019, entitled “Fluid Control Devices and Methods of Using the Same” (“Fluid Control Devices and Methods of Using the Same”). Any transmission, diversion, and / or isolation apparatus described in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2019 / 0365303 (“'303 Publication”) entitled “Fluid Control Devices and Methods of Using the Same”, filed March 11, 2020; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2020 / 0289039 (“'039 Publication”) entitled “Fluid Control Devices and Methods of Using the Same”, filed December 11, 2020; and / or U.S. Patent Application No. 17 / 119,732 (“'732 Application”) entitled “Fluid Transfer Devices with Integrated Flow-Based Assay and Methods of Using the Same”, filed December 11, 2020, the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0043] The distal portion 112 of the housing 110 is substantially open and is sized and configured to receive and / or removably couple to one or more devices, such as, for example, fixed or removable connectors, fluid collection devices, fluid delivery devices, sample reservoirs, needles, and / or the like, directly or indirectly. In some embodiments, for example, the delivery adapter 100 may optionally include a distal connector 125, which may be removably coupled to the distal portion 112 of the housing 110. The optional distal connector 125 may in turn be at least temporarily coupled (directly or indirectly) to a source of bodily fluids. For example, the optional distal connector 125 may be a Luer connector, a non-Luer connector, and / or any other suitable coupling device that may be removably coupled to a lumen-containing device in venous communication with a patient (e.g., a butterfly needle or other suitable type of needle, intravenous (IV) catheter, midline catheter, peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC), intermediate lumen-containing device, sterile flexible catheter, and / or the like). In other cases, the source of bodily fluids need not be a patient, but can be any suitable volume, reservoir, container, vial, tray, etc., that contains bodily fluids. In some embodiments, the optional distal connector 125 may be indirectly coupled to the source of bodily fluids via one or more intermediate devices, such as sterile tubing, transfer devices, diversion devices, isolation devices, and / or one or more other intermediate devices. For example, the optional distal connector 125 may be coupled to transfer, diversion, and / or isolation devices, such as any transfer, diversion, and / or isolation device described in '420, '241, '950, '774, '576, '864, '240, '117, '074, '087, '303, '039, and / or '732 applications.

[0044] As further described in detail herein, bodily fluids can be transferred from a patient and / or other bodily fluid sources to the transfer adapter 100 via an optional distal connector 125. In some implementations, the distal connector 125 can be removed from the distal portion 112 of the housing 110 after the desired volume of bodily fluid has been transferred to the transfer adapter 100 or to a fluid collection device (e.g., a syringe) fluidly coupled to the transfer adapter 100. In some implementations, a second fluid collection device (such as a sample vial, culture flask, vacuum container, and / or the like) can be at least partially inserted into the distal portion 112 of the housing 110 after the distal connector 125 has been removed to allow at least some of the collected bodily fluids (e.g., at least a portion of the bodily fluids contained in a fluid collection device coupled to the proximal portion 111 of the housing 110 (or its proximal connector)) to be transferred through the transfer adapter 100 (e.g., via the fluid communicator 130) and approaching the second fluid collection device (e.g., a sample vial), as further described in detail herein.

[0045] A fluid connector 130 is disposed within the internal volume of housing 110. The fluid connector 130 can be any suitable device configured to establish fluid communication between two or more components. For example, the fluid connector 130 can be a catheter, tube, and / or a device defining a lumen. In some embodiments, the fluid connector 130 is a needle with a sharpened or beveled distal end or tip. In other embodiments, the fluid connector 130 can be a needle or tube with a blunt distal end or tip. The proximal portion of the fluid connector is in fluid communication with the proximal portion 111 of housing (or its proximal connector). As described above, the proximal portion 111 or the proximal connector can be directly or indirectly coupled to a fluid collection device, such as a syringe, sample reservoir, needle, and / or the like. Thus, the lumen defined by the fluid connector 130 can be placed in fluid communication with the internal volume or lumen of the fluid collection device, allowing the transfer of bodily fluids therebetween. For example, the proximal connector of the housing 110 can be connected to a syringe, which can be manipulated to draw bodily fluid into the syringe via a fluid communicator 130, and to expel bodily fluid from the syringe via a fluid communicator 130, which will be described in further detail herein with reference to specific embodiments.

[0046] In an implementation including the optional distal connector 125, the distal connector 125 and the fluid communication device 130 are arranged such that when the distal connector 125 is coupled to the distal portion 112 of the housing 110, at least the distal portion of the fluid communication device 130 extends to and / or otherwise engages a portion of the distal connector 125 (see, for example...). Figure 1A For example, a portion of the distal connector 125 may be disposed within the internal volume of the housing 110 when coupled to the distal portion 112 of the housing 110, such that the distal portion of the fluid communication device 130 extends through and / or pierces the partitions, seals, ports, and / or similar elements of the distal connector 125. Accordingly, when the distal connector 125 is coupled to the housing 110, the cavity of the fluid communication device 130 is placed in fluid communication with the distal connector 125 and, for example, the proximal connector or other portion of the housing 110, to allow fluid flow (e.g., bodily fluids, such as blood) to be transmitted therebetween, as described further in detail herein.

[0047] Although Figure 1A and 1BAs not shown, the transmission adapter 100 may include a sheath disposed within an internal volume and surrounding or on at least a portion of the fluid connector 130. In some embodiments, the sheath may be a relatively flexible cover or the like configured to surround at least a portion of the fluid connector 130 to, for example, at least temporarily maintain the sterility of the fluid connector 130 and / or reduce the likelihood of unwanted user or patient contact with a portion of the fluid connector 130. As described further in detail herein, the sheath may be configured to transition between a first state in which the distal portion of the fluid connector 130 extends through the sheath and / or is otherwise not covered by the sheath, and in a second state in which the distal portion of the fluid connector 130 is disposed within the sheath and / or otherwise covered by the sheath.

[0048] The lock 150 of the transmission adapter 100 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. In some embodiments, the lock 150 can be configured to selectively engage an optional remote connector 125 to the distal portion 112 of the housing 110. In some embodiments, the lock 150 can switch between a first configuration and a second configuration, in which a portion of the lock 150 engages a portion of the optional remote connector 125, thereby engaging the remote connector 125 to the housing 110. Figure 1A In the second configuration, lock 150 does not engage distal connector 125, thereby allowing distal connector 125 to be removed from the distal portion 112 of housing 110. Figure 1B For example, lock 150 may include one or more shoulders configured to engage and / or contact one or more shoulders (or winglets) of optional distal connector 125, thereby connecting distal connector 125 to housing 110 by retaining a portion of distal connector 125 in the internal volume.

[0049] In some embodiments, the lock 150 (and / or a portion thereof) can be switched between a first configuration and a second configuration by rotating it relative to the housing 110. The lock 150 can be arranged such that rotating it relative to the housing 110 causes one or more shoulders (or other portions) of the lock 150 to be offset relative to one or more shoulders (or fins or other portions) of an optional distal connector 125. In other words, rotating the lock 150 can cause it to disengage from and / or be removed from contact with the distal connector 125, which in turn allows the distal connector 125 to be removed from the housing 110. While the lock 150 is described as rotating relative to the housing 110 between a first configuration and a second configuration, it should be understood that the lock can be configured to switch between any suitable number of configurations, states, and / or similar conditions in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, the lock can be switched via rotational movement (e.g., as described above), translational movement (e.g., via a slider, trigger, button, and / or the like), and / or any other suitable change in state, configuration, arrangement, etc.

[0050] The transmission adapter 100 and / or lock 150 or lock assembly also includes a worktable 140. The worktable 140 may be a platform, disk, shelf, ring, plate, seal, etc., arranged within the internal volume of the housing 110 and movable between a first, distal, or biased position and a second, proximal, or unbiased position. Although not in Figure 1A and 1B As shown, the worktable 140 may include a biasing member or energy storage member on the proximal side or surface of the worktable 140 and / or may otherwise contact a biasing member or energy storage member on the proximal side or surface of the worktable 140. In some embodiments, the biasing member is a spring and / or any other energy storage member, biasing member, etc. The biasing member may be configured to position the worktable 140 in a desired or biased position (e.g., a distal or first position). For example, the biasing member may be configured to position the worktable 140 in a desired, biased, or first position in which the worktable 140 is located, near, and / or adjacent to the distal portion 112 of the housing 110, such as... Figure 1B As shown. In other words, the biasing member can bias the stage 140 at a distal position. Furthermore, the stage 140 can be in a distal position relative to the fluid communication device 130 when in a biased or first configuration, state, and / or position, thereby limiting, blocking, and / or substantially preventing access to the fluid communication device 130. Figure 1B ).

[0051] In some implementations, before the distal connector 125 is connected to the distal portion 112 of the housing 110, the stage 140 is arranged between the optional distal connector 125 and, for example, a portion of the internal volume of the housing 110 and / or a fluid communication device 130 disposed in a portion of the internal volume of the housing 110, such as... Figure 1B As shown. Accordingly, when the distal connector 125 is engaged with the housing 110 and pushes or moves the worktable 140 toward or toward the proximal portion 111 of the housing 110 (e.g., moving from a first position to a second position, such as...), Figure 1A When (as shown), at least a portion of the distal connector 125 (e.g., a portion of the partition or surface) can be positioned in contact with the stage 140. In other implementations, the stage 140 may be positioned between a fluid collection device (such as a sample reservoir, culture flask, vacuum container, etc.) and a portion of the internal volume of the housing 110 and / or a fluid communicator 130 disposed within a portion of the internal volume of the housing 110. Accordingly, at least a portion of the fluid collection device may be positioned in contact with the stage 140 when coupled to and / or inserted into the distal portion 112 of the housing 110, and the stage 140 may be pushed from a distal or first position to or moved to a proximal or second position.

[0052] In some implementations, when coupled to housing 110, an optional distal connector 125, fluid collection device, and / or any other suitable means can contact, push, and / or move stage 140 in a proximal direction, which in turn can change the biasing member to a second, unbiased, and / or compressed state or configuration. Furthermore, when stage 140 and the biasing member are in a second, unbiased, compressed, and / or proximal position or state, at least a portion of fluid communication 130 can extend through stage 140 and distal to stage 140, such as... Figure 1A As shown. In some embodiments, this arrangement may allow the fluid connector 130 to engage, pierce, and / or extend through the distal connector 125 or a portion of the fluid collection device (e.g., a partition, a fragile seal, a port, an inlet surface, etc.), thereby establishing fluid communication between the fluid connector 130 and the fluid collection device and / or optionally the distal connector 125. Therefore, the workbench 140 may be, for example, a spring-loaded workbench, platform, seal, and / or the like, which may be biased in one position, limiting and / or blocking access to the fluid connector 130 in a first state or configuration, and allowing access to the fluid connector 130 in a second state or configuration.

[0053] In some implementations, the transfer adapter 100 may be pre-assembled, packaged, and / or transported in a first state or configuration whereby the fluid collection device is physically and / or fluidly coupled to the proximal portion 111 of the housing 110. For example, the transfer adapter 100 may be pre-assembled, packaged, and / or transported with the proximal connector of the housing 110 coupled to a syringe or the like. In some implementations, an optional distal connector 125 may also be coupled to the distal portion 112 of the housing 110, wherein the lock 150 is in a locked configuration.

[0054] The following describes an example of using the transmission adapter 100, wherein the optional distal connector 125 and syringe are pre-assembled. However, it should be understood that the usage process or method described below is presented by way of example only and not as a limitation. Other uses of the transmission adapter 100 are possible and can be described in further detail herein with reference to specific embodiments. For example, the transmission adapter 100 need not be pre-assembled, but can be assembled by a user or healthcare professional and / or otherwise coupled to any desired device.

[0055] When pre-assembled, adapter 100 can be in a first configuration or state, such as Figure 1A As shown. For example, lock 150 may be in a first configuration (e.g., a locked configuration) such that the optional distal connector 125 is secured or coupled to housing 110. As described above, when distal connector 125 is coupled to housing 110, table 140 is in a proximal, compressed, or second position, allowing at least a portion of fluid connector 130 to extend through table 140 and / or distal to table 140. In some implementations, a partition or other portion of distal connector 125 may engage a portion of a sheath at least partially surrounding fluid connector 130 to convert the sheath to a compressed configuration, thereby exposing a portion of fluid connector 130. Accordingly, fluid connector 130 extends outside the sheath, distal to table 140, and pierces and / or extends through the partition. Thus, since fluid connector 130 is fluidly coupled to proximal connector, fluid connector 130 fluidly connects distal connector 125 and proximal connector.

[0056] In some implementations, healthcare professionals can remove the pre-assembled adapter 100, distal connector 125, and syringe from a sterile package and can fluidly connect the optional distal connector 125 directly or indirectly to a source of bodily fluids. For example, healthcare professionals can connect the distal connector 125 to a proximal port, connector, and / or connector of a device, which in turn is in fluid communication with a source of bodily fluids (such as a butterfly needle, intravenous catheter, and / or access device). In some cases, the distal connector 125 can be connected to an intermediate transport, diversion, and / or isolation device configured to: (i) receive a flow of bodily fluids from a source, (ii) divert the initial or first portion of the fluid (which may more likely contain contaminants), (iii) isolate the initial or first portion of the fluid, and (iv) allow subsequent or second portions of the fluid to flow through the device and to the optional distal connector 125. In other implementations, although described as being coupled to a proximity device and / or intermediate transmission device, adapter 100 may be pre-assembled and / or packaged with any such device connected to the remote connector 125.

[0057] In the first configuration and / or state, the user or healthcare professional can operate the syringe by, for example, moving the plunger of the syringe in a proximal direction. The movement of the plunger, in turn, creates a negative pressure differential within the syringe, which can be operated to aspirate a large volume of bodily fluid into the distal connector 125, through the fluid communication 130 via the adapter 100, and close to the internal volume of the syringe.

[0058] After obtaining the desired volume of bodily fluid in the syringe, the user or healthcare professional can operate the device 100 by changing the lock 150 from a first or locked configuration or state to a second or unlocked configuration or state. In some cases, the user may disengage and / or disconnect the distal connector 125 from the source of bodily fluid or a device in fluid communication with the source of bodily fluid before changing the lock 150. In other cases, the user does not need to disengage and / or disconnect the distal connector 125. When the lock 150 is changed to the second or unlocked configuration or state, the user can detach or remove the distal connector 125 from the housing 110, thereby placing the transmission adapter 100 in the second configuration, such as... Figure 1B As shown.

[0059] The distal connector 125 can be arranged such that removing the distal connector 125 from the housing 110 retracts the fluid communication device 130 from the distal connector 125 and / or the partition included therein. In some embodiments, the partition may be, for example, a self-healing partition, port, material, and / or the like, capable of transforming or self-healing to a sealed state and / or configuration when the fluid communication device 130 is retracted, thereby preventing leakage of bodily fluids associated with a portion of the fluid flow path distal to the partition.

[0060] Removing the distal connector 125 allows the table 140 to move to its distal, biased, or first position. For example, a biasing member (e.g., a spring) or the like can apply force to the table 140 to return it to the biased position of the first position. More specifically, the biasing member is allowed to extend, which in turn moves the table 140 in the distal direction until the table 140 and the biasing member are in the biased or distal position. In some implementations, the table 140 can be configured to selectively engage a portion of the sheath, such that distal movement of the table 140 causes distal movement of at least a portion of the sheath. Thus, when the table 140 is in the distal or first position, the sheath can cover at least the distal portion of the fluid communication device 130. In some cases, after removing the distal connector 125 from the housing 110, the user can change the lock 150 back to a first or locked configuration or state, such that a portion of the lock 150 secures the table 140 in the distal or biased position. Accordingly, the workbench 140 and the sheath can together restrict and / or substantially prevent access to and / or contact with the fluid connector 130.

[0061] In some implementations, it may be necessary to transfer at least a portion of the bodily fluid in the syringe to a separate fluid collection device, such as a sample vial, culture flask, testing equipment, and / or the like. For example, in some cases, if not already in a second or unlocked configuration, a user can switch the lock 150 back to the second or unlocked configuration and insert a portion of the culture flask into the distal portion 112 of the housing 110. In some embodiments, at least the distal portion 112 of the housing 110 is sized, shaped, and / or configured such that any suitable and / or commercially available culture flask can be disposed within the housing 110. Furthermore, as the culture flask is inserted into the housing 110, the surface of the culture flask can contact the stage 140, and the stage 140 can be moved and / or rotated from a distal position toward a proximal position. Accordingly, the uncovered portion of the fluid communicator 130 can extend distally relative to the stage 140 and can pierce and / or otherwise insert a portion of the culture flask, thereby establishing fluid communication between the syringe and the culture flask. Therefore, users can operate the plunger of the syringe or rely on the vacuum filling (e.g., negative pressure difference) of the culture flask to transfer the desired volume of body fluid from the syringe to the culture flask via the transfer adapter 100 without the need for additional devices and / or components (which could otherwise introduce potential points of contamination).

[0062] While the use of the transfer adapter 100 with the optional distal connector 125 has been described above, in other implementations, the transfer adapter 100 can be used without the distal connector 125. In these implementations, for example, the proximal portion 111 of the housing 110 (or its proximal connector) can be directly or indirectly coupled to a source of bodily fluid. For example, as described above, the proximal connector can be coupled to a proximity device, a transfer device, and / or a combination thereof, which in turn is in fluid communication with the source of bodily fluid. In this implementation, the lock 150 can be in an unlocked configuration (or can be placed in an unlocked configuration), and a fluid collection device (such as a sample vial, culture flask, testing equipment, and / or the like) can be inserted into the distal portion 112 of the housing 110. In this way, bodily fluid can flow from the source of bodily fluid into the culture flask (or the like) via the transfer adapter 100 in a manner substantially similar to that of bodily fluid flowing from a syringe to a culture flask when using the optional distal connector 125.

[0063] Figure 2-10 The figure illustrates a transfer device 200 according to another embodiment. The transfer device 200 (also referred to herein as a “transfer adapter,” “adapter,” and / or “device”) can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. In some implementations, the transfer device 200 is configured to transfer bodily fluids while reducing the number of user and / or fluid interfaces (which could otherwise be potential sources of contamination). More specifically, in some implementations, the transfer device 200 may be coupled to a fluid collection device (or any other suitable device) and used to transfer bodily fluids from a source (e.g., a bodily fluid source, such as a patient’s vein) to the fluid collection device. Furthermore, the transfer device 200 can be used to transfer at least a portion of bodily fluids from the fluid collection device to a second collection device or container (e.g., a sample bottle, culture flask, and / or the like).

[0064] Figure 2 and Figure 3 The figures shown are a perspective view and a front view of the transmission device 200 connected to the syringe 290, which are described in further detail herein. Figure 4 This is an exploded view of the transmission device 200. As shown, the transmission device 200 includes a housing 210, a proximal connector 220, a distal connector 225, a fluid communication device 230, and a lock 250.

[0065] The housing 210 can be any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. In some embodiments, the size and / or shape of the housing 210 may be based at least in part on the size and / or shape of one or more devices configured to be used in conjunction with the transmission device 200, as further described in detail herein.

[0066] Housing 210 includes a proximal portion 211 and a distal portion 212, defining an internal volume. The proximal portion 211 of housing 210 is substantially open and is sized and configured to receive and / or be coupled to a proximal connector 220. The proximal connector 220 is further configured to be coupled, at least temporarily, to a fluid collection device. For example, in Figure 2-10 In the illustrated embodiment, the proximal connector 220 is configured to be physically and fluidly coupled to the connector 292 of the syringe 290 via a threaded connector, a Luer connector, and / or any other suitable connection. In other embodiments, the proximal connector 220 may be fixedly coupled to or connected to the connector 292 of the syringe 290 (e.g., integrally formed, pre-assembled, and / or similar).

[0067] The distal portion 212 of the housing 210 is substantially open and is sized and configured to receive and / or removably couple to the distal connector 225. The distal connector 225 is, in turn, at least temporarily coupled (directly or indirectly) to a source of bodily fluids. For example, the distal connector 225 may be a Luer connector, a non-Luer connector, and / or any other suitable coupling device that can be removably coupled to a lumen-containing device (e.g., a butterfly needle, intravenous (IV) catheter, peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC), intermediate lumen-containing device, and / or the like) in venous fluid communication with a patient. In other cases, the source of bodily fluids need not be a patient, but may be any suitable volume, reservoir, container, vial, etc., containing bodily fluids. In some embodiments, the distal connector 225 may be indirectly coupled to the source of bodily fluids via one or more intermediate devices (e.g., sterile fittings, transfer, diversion and / or isolation devices, and / or one or more other intermediate devices).

[0068] As further described in detail herein, bodily fluids can be transferred from a patient and / or other sources of bodily fluids to the transfer device 200 via the distal connector 225. In some implementations, after the desired volume of bodily fluid has been transferred to the transfer device 200, the distal connector 225 is removed from the distal portion 212 of the housing 210. In some implementations, after the distal connector 225 has been removed, a second fluid collection device (such as a sample vial, culture flask, vacuum container, and / or the like) can be at least partially inserted into the distal portion 212 of the housing 210 to allow at least some of the bodily fluid contained in the fluid collection device (e.g., syringe 290) coupled to the proximal connector 220 to be transferred through the transfer device 200 and into proximity to the second fluid collection device (e.g., a sample vial), as further described in detail herein.

[0069] like Figure 4-6As shown, the fluid communication device 230 is arranged within the internal volume 213 of the housing 210. The fluid communication device 230 can be any suitable device configured to establish fluid communication between two or more components. For example, the fluid communication device 230 can be a conduit, tube, and / or a device defining a cavity. More specifically, in Figure 2-10 In the example shown, the fluid connector 230 is a needle with, for example, a sharpened or beveled distal end or tip. In other embodiments, the fluid connector 230 may have a blunt distal end or tip.

[0070] The fluid connector 230 has a proximal portion that is coupled to and in fluid communication with the proximal connector 220 (see, for example...). Figure 5 and 6 When the proximal connector 220 is coupled to the connector 292 of the syringe 290, the proximal connector 220 is in fluid communication with the internal volume of the syringe 290. Therefore, the cavity defined by the fluid communication device 230 is fluidly connected to the internal volume of the syringe 290, and the transfer device 200 and / or the syringe 290 can be operated to transfer fluid therebetween, as described in further detail herein.

[0071] The fluid connector 230 has a distal portion configured to engage the distal connector 225 when it is coupled to the distal portion 212 of the housing 210. For example, as Figure 5 and 6 As shown, a portion of the distal connector 225 is disposed within the internal volume 213 when coupled to the distal portion 212 of the housing 210, such that the distal portion of the fluid communication device 230 extends through and / or pierces the partition 226 of the distal connector 225. Therefore, when the distal connector 225 is coupled to the housing 210, the cavity of the fluid communication device 230 places the distal connector 225 in fluid communication with the proximal connector 220 to allow fluid flow (e.g., bodily fluids, such as blood) to be transmitted between them, as described further in detail herein.

[0072] The transmission device 200 also includes a sheath 232 disposed within the internal volume 213 and surrounding or on at least a portion of the fluid communicator 230. In some embodiments, the sheath 232 may be a relatively flexible cover or the like configured to surround at least a portion of the fluid communicator 230 to, for example, at least temporarily maintain the sterility of the fluid communicator 230 and / or reduce the likelihood of unwanted user or patient contact with a portion of the fluid communicator 230. As further described in detail herein, the sheath 232 may be configured to transition between a first state and a second state in which the distal portion of the fluid communicator 230 extends through the sheath 232 and / or is otherwise not covered by the sheath 232 (see, for example...). Figure 5 and 6 In the second state, the distal portion of the fluid communication device 230 is disposed within and / or otherwise covered by the sheath 232 (see, for example...). Figure 10 ).

[0073] The lock 250 of the transmission device 200 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. In some embodiments, the lock 250 can be configured to selectively engage the distal connector 225 to the distal portion 212 of the housing 210. In some embodiments, the lock 250 can switch between a first configuration and a second configuration, in which a portion of the lock 250 engages a portion of the distal connector 225, thereby engaging the distal connector 225 to the housing 210, and in a second configuration, the lock 250 does not engage the distal connector 225, thereby allowing the distal connector 225 to be removed from the distal portion 212 of the housing 210. For example, as Figure 7 and 8 As shown, the lock 250 may include one or more shoulders 251 configured to engage and / or contact one or more shoulders 227 (or winglets) of the distal connector 225, thereby connecting the distal connector 225 to the housing 210 by retaining a portion of the distal connector 225 in the internal volume 213.

[0074] In some embodiments, lock 250 can be switched between a first configuration and a second configuration by rotating lock 250 (and / or a portion thereof) relative to housing 210. Lock 250 can be arranged such that rotating lock 250 relative to housing 210 rotates one or more shoulders 251 of lock 250 to a position offset relative to one or more shoulders 227 (or winglets) of distal connector 225. In other words, rotating lock 250 can cause lock 250 to disengage from and / or be removed from contact with distal connector 225, which in turn allows distal connector 225 to be removed from housing 210. While lock 250 is described as rotating relative to housing 210 between a first configuration and a second configuration, it should be understood that lock can be configured to be switched in any suitable manner. For example, in some embodiments, lock can be switched via rotational movement (e.g., as described above), translational movement (e.g., via a slider, trigger, button, and / or the like), and / or any other suitable change in state, configuration, arrangement, etc. Although lock 250 is shown and described as rotating, it should be understood that lock 250 is not intended to be limited to this configuration.

[0075] like Figure 7 and 8 As shown, the transmission device 200 and / or lock 250 or lock assembly further includes a biasing member 235 and a worktable 240. In this embodiment, the worktable 240 is a platform, tray, shelf, ring, plate, etc., which is arranged between the distal connector 225 and the biasing member 235 when the distal connector 225 is coupled to the housing 210. More specifically, when the distal connector 225 is coupled to the housing 210 and pushes or moves the worktable 240 toward or moves toward the proximal portion 211 of the housing 210, at least a portion of the distal connector 225 (e.g., a portion or surface of the partition 226) is placed in contact with the worktable 240.

[0076] As shown in the figure, the other side of the worktable 240 contacts the biasing member 235. In some embodiments, the biasing member 235 is a spring and / or any other energy storage member, biasing member, etc. The biasing member 235 is configured to position the worktable 240 in a desired or biased position. For example, in this embodiment, the biasing member 235 may be configured to position the worktable 240 in a desired biased or first position in which the worktable 240 is located, near, and / or adjacent to the distal portion 212 of the housing 210 (see, for example...). Figure 10 In other words, the offset member 235 can offset the stage 240 at a distal position. For example... Figure 10As shown, the workbench 240 may be located in a distal position relative to the fluid connector 230 when in an offset or first configuration, state, and / or position, thereby limiting, blocking, and / or substantially preventing access to the fluid connector 230. Similarly, the workbench 240 may include and / or form a seal or the like that may isolate or substantially isolate the fluid connector 230 within the internal volume of the housing 210. In other words, the workbench 240 may include and / or form a seal between the distal end of the opening of the housing 210 and the fluid connector 230, thereby limiting, blocking, and / or substantially preventing access to the fluid connector 230 via the distal end of the housing 210 before the distal connector 225 is inserted into or coupled to the housing 210.

[0077] As further described in detail herein, when coupled to housing 210, distal connector 225 can contact, push, and / or move stage 240 in the proximal direction, which in turn can change bias member 235 to a second, unbiased and / or compressed state or configuration, such as Figure 7 and 8 As shown. Furthermore, when the stage 240 and the biasing member 235 are in the second, unbiased, compressed, and / or proximal position or state, at least a portion of the fluid communication device 230 extends through the stage 240 and is distal to the stage 240, as... Figure 5 and 6 As shown. In some embodiments, this arrangement may allow the fluid connector 230 to engage, pierce, and / or extend through a portion of the partition 226 of the distal connector 225, thereby establishing fluid communication between the distal connector 225 and the fluid connector 230. Therefore, the workbench 240 may be, for example, a spring-loaded workbench or platform that may be biased in one position, limiting and / or blocking access to the fluid connector 230 in a first state or configuration, and allowing access to the fluid connector 230 in a second state or configuration.

[0078] In some implementations, the delivery device 200 may be pre-assembled, packaged, and / or transported in a first state or configuration in which the syringe 290 is coupled to the proximal connector 220, and the distal connector 225 is coupled to the distal portion of the housing 210. In use, a healthcare professional can remove the pre-assembled device 200 and syringe 290 from the sterile packaging and can fluidly connect the distal connector 225 directly or indirectly to a source of bodily fluids. For example, in some cases, a healthcare professional can connect the distal connector 225 to a proximal port, connector, and / or connector of the device, which is in fluid communication with a source of bodily fluids. In other cases, the device 200 may be pre-assembled and / or packaged with any suitable device connected to the distal connector 225. As described above, the device may be, for example, a butterfly needle, an intravenous catheter, and / or a proximity device. In other cases, the device may be an intermediate transfer, diversion, and / or isolation device, which may be configured to receive a flow of bodily fluid, divert the initial portion of the fluid (which may more likely contain contaminants), isolate the initial portion of the bodily fluid, and allow subsequent portions of the bodily fluid to flow through the device and toward the distal connector 225.

[0079] In some embodiments, the transmission, diversion, and / or isolation device can be any suitable device. For example, such a device can be similar to and / or substantially the same as any transmission, diversion, and / or isolation device described above in the '420, '241, '950, '774, '576, '864, '240, '117, '074, '087, '303, '039, and / or '732 applications, which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0080] Lock 250 can be in a first configuration (e.g., locked configuration) such that the remote connector 225 is secured or coupled to housing 210. Figure 5 and 6 As shown, when the distal connector 225 is engaged with the housing 210, the worktable 240 is in a proximal or compressed position. Furthermore, the partition 226 of the distal connector 225 can engage a portion of the sheath 232 to convert the sheath 232 to a compressed configuration. Accordingly, the fluid connector 230 extends outside the sheath 232, distal to the worktable 240, and pierces and / or extends through the partition 226. Since the fluid connector 230 is fluidly coupled to the proximal connector 220, the fluid connector 230 establishes fluid communication between the distal connector 225 and the proximal connector 220, as... Figure 5 and 6 As shown. In this configuration and / or state, the user or healthcare professional can operate the syringe 290 by, for example, moving the plunger 293 of the syringe 290 in a proximal direction (see example). Figure 9 and10 The movement of plunger 293 generates a negative pressure difference within syringe 290, which draws a large amount of body fluid into distal connector 225, through fluid communication device 230, through proximal connector 220 and connector 292, and close to the internal volume of syringe 290.

[0081] After obtaining the desired volume of bodily fluid in syringe 290, the user or healthcare professional can operate device 200 by changing lock 250 from a first or locked configuration or state to a second or unlocked configuration or state, such as... Figure 9 As shown. In some cases, the user may disconnect and / or disconnect the distal connector 225 from the source of bodily fluids or a device in fluid communication with the source of bodily fluids before turning the lock 250. In other cases, the user does not need to disconnect and / or disconnect the distal connector 225.

[0082] When lock 250 is switched to a second or unlocked configuration or state, the user can detach or remove the remote connector 225 from housing 210, such as Figure 10 As indicated by the arrow in the diagram. The arrangement of the distal connector 225 is such that removing the distal connector 225 from the housing 211 retracts the fluid communication device 230 from the partition 226. In some embodiments, the partition 226 may be, for example, a self-healing partition, port, material, and / or the like, capable of transforming or self-healing to a sealed state and / or configuration when the fluid communication device 230 is retracted, thereby preventing bodily fluid leakage associated with a portion of the fluid flow path distal to the partition 226.

[0083] Removing the distal connector 225 allows the biasing member 235 (e.g., a spring) to return to the biased or initial configuration. More specifically, in this embodiment, the biasing member 235 is allowed to extend, which in turn moves the table 240 in the distal direction until the table 240 and the biasing member 235 are in the biased or distal position. Furthermore, the table 240 can be configured to selectively engage a portion of the sleeve 232 such that distal movement of the table 240 results in distal movement of at least a portion of the sleeve 232. As shown, when the table 240 is in the distal position, the sleeve 232 can completely cover at least the distal portion of the fluid communication device 230. In some cases, after removing the distal connector 225 from the housing 210, the user can change the lock 250 back to the first or locked configuration or state, such that a portion of the lock 250 secures the table 240 in the distal or biased position, as... Figure 10 As shown. Accordingly, the workbench 240 and the sheath 232 can together restrict and / or substantially prevent access to and / or contact with the fluid communication device 230.

[0084] In some implementations, it may be necessary to transfer at least a portion of the bodily fluid in syringe 290 to a separate fluid collection device, such as a sample vial, culture flask, testing equipment, and / or the like. For example, in some cases, if not already in a second or unlocked configuration, a user can switch lock 250 back to the second or unlocked configuration and insert a portion of the culture flask into the distal portion 212 of housing 210. In some embodiments, at least the distal portion 212 of housing 210 is sized, shaped, and / or configured such that any suitable and / or commercially available culture flask can be disposed within housing 210. Furthermore, as the culture flask is inserted into housing 210, the surface of the culture flask can contact stage 240, and stage 240 can be moved and / or rotated from a distal position toward a proximal position. Accordingly, the uncovered portion of fluid communication device 230 can extend distally relative to stage 240 and can pierce and / or otherwise insert a portion of the culture flask, thereby placing syringe 290 in fluid communication with the culture flask. Therefore, the user can operate the plunger 293 of the syringe 290 or rely on the vacuum filling (e.g., negative pressure difference) of the culture flask to transfer the desired volume of body fluid from the syringe 290 to the culture flask via the transfer adapter 200 without the need for additional devices and / or components (which may otherwise introduce potential points of contamination).

[0085] Figure 11-13 The illustration shows a transfer device 300 according to another embodiment. The transfer device 300 (also referred to herein as a “transfer adapter,” “adapter,” and / or “device”) can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. In some implementations, the transfer device 300 is configured to transfer bodily fluids while reducing the number of user and / or fluid interfaces (which could otherwise be potential sources of contamination). More specifically, in some implementations, the transfer device 300 can be coupled to a fluid collection device (or any other suitable device) and used to transfer bodily fluids from a source (e.g., a bodily fluid source, such as a patient’s vein) to the fluid collection device. Furthermore, the transfer device 300 can be used to transfer at least a portion of bodily fluids from the fluid collection device to a second collection device or container (e.g., a sample bottle, culture flask, and / or the like). Parts and / or aspects of the transfer device 300 and / or portions thereof may be similar to or substantially identical to parts and / or aspects of the transfer devices 100 and / or 200 described above. Therefore, these parts and / or aspects may not be described in further detail herein.

[0086] Figure 11 This is a perspective view of the transmission device 300. Figure 12 and 13These are cross-sectional views of the transmission device 300 in the first and second configurations, respectively. As shown, the transmission device 300 includes a housing 310, a proximal connector 320, a fluid communication device 330, a sheath 332, a biasing component 335, a worktable 340, and a lock 350.

[0087] The housing 310 can be any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. In some embodiments, the size and / or shape of the housing 310 may be at least in part based on the size and / or shape of one or more devices configured to be used in conjunction with the transmission device 300. In some embodiments, the housing 310 is consistent with the above-mentioned references. Figure 2-10 The housing 210 described is similar to or substantially the same. Therefore, although parts of housing 310 can be identified, such similar parts of housing 310 are not described in further detail here.

[0088] The housing 310 includes a proximal portion 311 and a distal portion 312, defining an internal volume. The proximal portion 311 of the housing 310 is substantially open and is sized and configured to receive and / or be coupled to a proximal connector 320. The proximal connector 320 is, in turn, at least temporarily coupled (directly or indirectly) to a source of bodily fluids. For example, the proximal connector 320 may be coupled and / or connected to a lumen-containing device (e.g., a butterfly needle, IV catheter, PICC line, intermediate lumen-containing device, and / or the like) in venous fluid communication with a patient. In some embodiments, the proximal connector 320 may be indirectly coupled to a source of bodily fluids via one or more intermediate devices (such as, for example, sterile fittings, transfer, diversion and / or isolation devices, and / or one or more other intermediate devices). For example, the proximal connector 320 can be coupled to a fluid delivery device, such as any fluid delivery device described in '420, '241, '950, '774, '576, '864, '240, '117, '074, '087, '303, '039, and / or '732 applications. In other embodiments, the proximal connector 320 can be coupled to any suitable device. Thus, while the distal connector 225 described above establishes fluid communication between the fluid source and the delivery device 200, in this embodiment, the proximal connector 320 establishes fluid communication between the fluid source and the delivery device 300.

[0089] The distal portion 312 of the housing 310 is substantially open and is sized and configured to receive a fluid collection device, such as, for example, a sample bottle, culture flask, vacuum container, and / or the like. Although in Figure 11-13In the illustrated embodiment, device 200 is described as including a distal connector 225 removably coupled to housing 210, and transmission device 300 does not include and / or need not include a distal connector. In this embodiment, for example, transmission device 300 may be configured to transmit a flow of bodily fluid received by proximal connector 320, which flows through fluid communication 330 and into a fluid collection device at least partially inserted into the distal portion 312 of housing 310, as described in further detail herein.

[0090] like Figure 12 and 13 As shown, the fluid connector 330 is disposed within the internal volume 313 of the housing 310. The fluid connector 330 can be any suitable device configured to establish fluid communication between two or more components. For example, the fluid connector 330 can be a conduit, tube, needle, device defining a cavity, and / or the like. The fluid connector 330 has a proximal portion that is coupled to and in fluid communication with a proximal connector 320, which in turn is fluidly coupled to a fluid transfer device such as described above. The fluid connector 330 has a distal portion that is configured to engage a portion of a fluid collection device when at least partially inserted into the distal portion 312 of the housing 310. Thus, the cavity defined by the fluid connector 330 is configured to fluidly couple the proximal connector 320 to a fluid collection device at least partially disposed within the housing 310. The transmission device 300 also includes a sheath 332 disposed within the internal volume 313 and surrounding or on at least a portion of the fluid communication device 330 (see, for example...). Figure 12 and 13 In some embodiments, fluid connector 330 and sheath 332 may be similar to fluid connector 230 and sheath 232 as described above, at least in form and / or function, and therefore will not be described in further detail here.

[0091] The lock 350 of the transmission device 300 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. In some embodiments, the lock 350 may be similar to the lock 250 at least in form and / or function; therefore, parts and / or aspects of the lock 350 will not be described in further detail here. The lock 350 is configured to be able to switch between a first configuration and a second configuration. Although in Figure 11-13In the illustrated embodiment, lock 250 is described as engaging the remote connector 225 to housing 210 in a first or locked configuration, and the transmission device 300 does not include and / or does not need to be engaged to the remote connector. However, similar to lock 250, lock 350 is configured to lock the worktable 340 in a desired position in a first or locked configuration, and is configured to release and / or allow movement of the worktable 340 in a second or unlocked configuration, as described in further detail herein.

[0092] The workbench 340 can be of any suitable shape, size, and / or configuration. For example, in some embodiments, the workbench 340 can be a platform, tray, shelf, ring, plate, etc., configured to selectively restrict access to the fluid communication device 330, as described above with reference to workbench 240. Figure 12 and 13 As shown, the proximal side or surface of the worktable 340 contacts the biasing member 335. In some embodiments, the biasing member 335 is a spring and / or any other energy storage member, biasing member, etc. The biasing member 335 is configured to position the worktable 340 in a desired or biased position. For example, the biasing member 335 may be configured to position the worktable 340 in a desired, biased, or first position in which the worktable 340 is located, near, and / or adjacent to the distal portion 312 of the housing 310 (see, for example...). Figure 12 As described above with reference to workbench 240, workbench 340 is in a distal position relative to fluid connector 330 when in an offset or first configuration, state, and / or position, thereby restricting, blocking, and / or substantially preventing access to fluid connector 330. Similarly, workbench 340 may include and / or may form a seal or the like that may isolate or substantially isolate fluid connector 330 within the internal volume of housing 310. In other words, workbench 340 may include and / or form a seal between the distal end of the opening of housing 310 and fluid connector 330, thereby restricting, blocking, and / or substantially preventing access to fluid connector 330 via the distal end of housing 310.

[0093] As further described in detail herein, when the fluid collection device is at least partially inserted into the housing 310, the surface of the fluid collection device can contact, push, and / or move the stage 340 in a proximal direction, which in turn can change the biasing member 335 to a second, unbiased and / or compressed state or configuration, such as Figure 13As shown. When the worktable 340 and the biasing member 335 are in the second, unbiased, compressed and / or proximal position or state, at least a portion of the fluid connector 330 extends through the worktable 340 and is distal to the worktable 340. This allows the fluid connector 330 to engage, pierce and / or extend through the surface of the fluid collection device, thereby establishing fluid communication between the proximal connector 320 and the fluid collection device (not shown), as described in detail with reference to the above-described device 200.

[0094] In some implementations, the transfer device 300 may be packaged and / or transported in a first state or configuration in which the workbench 340 is located at a remote position, thereby limiting access to the fluid communication device 330. In some implementations, the transfer adapter 300 or device may be coupled to or pre-assembled with a fluid transfer device, flow guide, isolation device, etc., connected to the proximal connector 320. In other embodiments, the transfer adapter 300 or device is packaged independently of other devices (such as fluid transfer devices).

[0095] In use, healthcare professionals can remove device 300 from its sterile packaging and fluidly connect the proximal connector 320 directly or indirectly to a source of bodily fluids. For example, in some cases, healthcare professionals can connect the proximal connector 320 to a proximal port, connector, and / or connector of a diversion and / or isolation device, such as any diversion and / or isolation device described in '420, '241, '950, '774, '576, '864, '240, '117, '074, '087, '303, '039, and / or '732 applications. The diversion and / or isolation device (referred to as the "diversion device") is in fluid communication with a source of bodily fluids (e.g., via a butterfly needle, IV catheter, PICC line, midline, access device, and / or the like).

[0096] In some implementations, a user or healthcare professional can operate the diversion device to initiate the inflow of bodily fluid into the diversion device. The diversion device can be configured to automatically or manually (e.g., in response to user intervention) divert and isolate the initial portion of the bodily fluid delivered to the diversion device. Once the initial portion of the bodily fluid is isolated, the diversion device can automatically or manually allow subsequent flow of bodily fluid through the diversion device and into the proximal connector 320. In some implementations, the proximal connector 320 can be coupled to the diversion device before the diversion device receives the bodily fluid flow and can aspirate the bodily fluid flow into and / or through the diversion device in response to the fluid collection device being at least partially inserted into the distal portion 312 of the housing 310. In other implementations, the proximal connector 320 of the delivery device 300 can be coupled to the diversion device after the diversion device has isolated the initial portion of the bodily fluid.

[0097] As described above, the transmission device 300 can be in a first configuration and / or state before use. Accordingly, the lock 350 is in the first configuration (e.g., a locked configuration) such that the worktable 340 is in a distal position relative to the fluid communication device 330, thereby blocking and / or restricting access to the fluid communication device 330, as... Figure 12 As shown. After the proximal connector 320 is connected to the flow guide, the user or healthcare professional can change the transmission device 300 to a second configuration and / or state. For example, in some embodiments, the user can rotate and / or otherwise change the lock 350 from a first or locked configuration to a second or unlocked configuration. As described above, when the lock 350 is in the second or unlocked configuration, the worktable 340 is allowed to move relative to the fluid connector 330 (e.g., proximally) to allow access to the fluid connector 330.

[0098] With device 300 in a second configuration and / or state (e.g., when lock 350 is in an unlocked configuration), the user can insert a portion of the fluid collection device into and / or through the distal portion 312 of housing 310. The fluid collection device can be, for example, any suitable and / or commercially available culture flask, sample bottle, vacuum container, etc. As described above with reference to device 200, inserting the fluid collection device into housing 310 such that the surface of the fluid collection device contacts the distal side or surface of stage 340, and as the fluid collection device travels into housing 310, the stage 340 moves from a distal position ( Figure 12 ) Towards the near side ( Figure 13 Movement and / or transformation. Accordingly, the uncovered portion of the fluid connector 330 may extend relatively distally to the worktable 340 and may pierce and / or otherwise insert through the surface of the fluid collection device, thereby placing the proximal connector 320 in fluid communication with the fluid collection device (e.g., via the fluid connector 330).

[0099] When the fluid connector 330 is in fluid communication with the fluid collection device, the transfer device 300 can be configured to transfer bodily fluid from a guide device coupled to the proximal connector 320 to the fluid collection device. As described above, in some implementations, the transfer device 300 can be coupled to the guide device before or after the guide device receives the bodily fluid flow. In some implementations, the fluid collection device can be defined under negative pressure and / or can be at least partially evacuated in other ways, resulting in suction being applied through the fluid connector 330 when the fluid connector 330 is punctured and / or otherwise inserted into the fluid collection device. The suction can then be operated to draw bodily fluid into the guide device, which can automatically guide and isolate an initial volume of bodily fluid, and once isolated, can allow subsequent flow of bodily fluid to bypass the isolated initial volume and flow through the guide device. Thus, the transfer device 300 can receive subsequent flow of bodily fluid and can transfer such subsequent flow of bodily fluid to the fluid collection device (e.g., via the proximal connector 320 and the fluid connector 330). In some cases, isolating the initial volume of bodily fluid can also isolate any contaminants that may be present in the initial volume, making subsequent fluid flows essentially uncontaminated. Furthermore, restricting access to the fluid communication device 330 before inserting the fluid collection device into the housing 310 can mitigate and / or eliminate potential sources of contamination. Therefore, the likelihood of contamination of the bodily fluid transferred to the fluid collection device is reduced and / or essentially eliminated.

[0100] Although transmission devices 100, 200, and / or 300 have been specifically shown and described above, it should be understood that transmission devices 100, 200, and / or 300 are presented by way of example only and are not intended to be limiting. Various changes and / or modifications may be made to facilitate the use and / or compatibility of the devices and / or parts or aspects thereof. For example, Figure 14-34 The illustrations depict various parts and / or features of transmission devices, one or more of which may be incorporated into transmission devices 100, 200, and / or 300. Although not shown or described in detail herein, it should be understood that... Figure 14-34 The transmission device illustrated in the figure may include any feature, component, part, etc. of transmission devices 100, 200 and / or 300, and may be used in conjunction with any of the above-mentioned fluid collection devices, flow guiding devices, isolation devices, etc.

[0101] Figure 14The illustration shows a portion of a transfer device 400 according to an embodiment. The transfer device 400 includes a housing 410 having a proximal connector 420 and a fluid connector 430 disposed within the housing 410 and in fluid communication with the proximal connector 420. In this example, the transfer device 410 includes a set of flexible fingers, flanges, arms, extensions, etc. (referred to herein as "finger 414"). As shown, the flexible finger 414 may be configured to buckle, bend, and / or elastically deform in response to insertion of a fluid collection device 480 into the housing 410. In some implementations, the flexible finger 414 may allow fluid collection devices of various sizes and / or shapes to be inserted into the housing 410. Furthermore, in some implementations, the flexible finger 414 may apply frictional forces to the surfaces of the fluid collection device, which may help secure the fluid collection device within the housing 410.

[0102] Figure 15 The illustration shows a portion of a transmission device 500 according to another embodiment. The transmission device 500 includes a housing 510 comprising a set of flexible fingers 514, similar to the flexible fingers 414 described above. In this example, the flexible fingers 514 may include smooth, rounded, and / or curved inner surfaces that facilitate insertion of a fluid collection device 580 into the transmission device 500. In some implementations, the inner surfaces of the fingers 514 may include a surface finish or texture configured to increase the amount of friction between the inner and outer surfaces of the fluid collection device 580. In some implementations, the fingers 514 may be relatively rigid, and the inner surfaces of the fingers may be formed of a relatively soft or flexible material that at least partially conforms to the outer surface of the fluid collection device 580 upon insertion.

[0103] Figure 16 The illustration shows a portion of a transmission device 600 according to another embodiment. The transmission device 600 includes a housing 610 having a proximal connector 620 and a fluid communicator (not shown) disposed within the housing and in fluid communication with the proximal connector 620. In this example, the housing 610 includes a set of slits or the like, with flexible and / or deformable portions 615 of the housing 610 disposed between the set of slits or the like. In some implementations, this arrangement may allow the housing 610 (or at least a portion thereof) to deform or compress when a fluid collecting device is inserted into the housing 610. In this way, the height of the housing 610 is compressed or reduced, which in turn reduces the distance between the distal portion of the housing 610 and the fluid communicator disposed within the housing 610. Accordingly, the fluid communicator can be inserted into the fluid collecting device, which would otherwise not be able to be inserted into the housing 610 with sufficient distance.

[0104] Any transmission device described herein may include one or more features, portions, and / or arrangements configured to restrict and / or prevent unintended access to the fluid communicator. As previously described, in some embodiments, the fluid communicator may be a needle with a sharpened distal end that poses a risk of unwanted needlestick injury or puncture to the patient and / or user. Therefore, any transmission device may include one or more features, portions, and / or arrangements that can enhance and / or increase patient and / or user safety by selectively restricting access to the fluid communicator.

[0105] For example, Figure 17 The illustration shows a portion of a transmission device 700 according to an embodiment. The transmission device 700 includes a housing 710 and a fluid communication device 730 disposed within the housing 710. In this example, the housing 710 includes and / or defines a helical inner track 716 that allows an inner sheath 732, which otherwise covers the fluid communication device 730, to twist and compress in response to insertion of a fluid collecting device into the housing 710. This twisting and compression of the inner sheath 732 exposes a portion of the fluid communication device 730, allowing it to be inserted into the fluid collecting device.

[0106] Figure 18 The illustration shows a portion of a transfer device 800 according to another embodiment. The transfer device 800 includes a housing 810 and a fluid communication device 830 disposed within the housing 810. In this example, the transfer device 800 includes a worktable 840 (e.g., a plate, tray, platform, etc.) that selectively restricts access to the fluid communication device 830. For example, the worktable 840 may selectively engage a set of latches 817 formed by the inner surface of the housing 810, the set of latches being configured to at least temporarily hold the worktable 840 in a distal position. Figure 18 (As shown in the diagram). When the fluid collection device is inserted into the housing 810, the surface of the fluid collection device can apply a force to the table 840, which is operable to release the table 840 from the latch 817 and move the table 840 in a proximal direction to allow the fluid communicator 830 to be inserted into the fluid collection device. In other implementations, the fluid collection device can engage the latch 817 when inserted into the housing 810. In such an implementation, the surface of the fluid collection device can deflect the latch 817 outward to release the table 840, allowing the table 840 to move in a proximal direction. In some cases, this arrangement is advantageous because it is unlikely that a user's fingers will simultaneously deflect all the latches 817 (e.g., on both or more sides of the housing 810), thus making it unlikely that the table 840 will be released.

[0107] Figure 19The illustration shows a portion of a transfer device 900 according to another embodiment. The transfer device 900 includes a housing 910 and a fluid communication device 930 disposed within the housing 910. In this example, the transfer device 900 includes a worktable 940 that selectively restricts access to the fluid communication device 930. The transfer device 900 also includes a biasing member 935 (e.g., a spring) that biases and / or at least temporarily holds the worktable in a distal position that restricts and / or prevents access to the fluid communication device 930. As shown, the housing 910 may be a two-part configuration, for example, including a lock 950 that can be switched from a first or locked configuration to a second or unlocked configuration. Furthermore, the inner surface of the housing 910 may include and / or form one or more engaging or clamping features 917A (e.g., protrusions or ribs formed of a material having a relatively high coefficient of friction, such as rubber or silicone). In some implementations, a user may, for example, insert a portion of a fluid collection device into the housing 910 such that the engaging or clamping features 917A contact the surface of the fluid collection device. In some cases, after the fluid collection device is inserted into the housing 910, the user can rotate the fluid collection device, and the friction between the engaging or clamping feature 917A and the surface of the fluid collection device can be sufficient to rotate the first portion of the housing 910 relative to the second portion of the housing 910, thereby changing the lock 950 from a first or locked configuration to a second or unlocked configuration. When the lock 950 is in the second or unlocked configuration, movement of the first portion of the housing 910 relative to the second portion of the housing 910 is permitted, thereby allowing the fluid collection device to travel relative to the fluid connector 930, such that the fluid connector 930 pierces the surface of the fluid collection device.

[0108] Figure 20 and Figure 21 The figures illustrate portions of a transmission device 1000 according to another embodiment, shown in a first configuration and a second configuration. The transmission device 1000 includes a housing 1010 and a fluid communication device (not shown) disposed within the housing 1010. In this example, the transmission device 1000 includes a door 1018 that selectively closes and opens to allow access to the fluid communication device. In some embodiments, for example, the door 1018 may include fins or grippers that a user can engage or grasp to transition the door 1018 between a closed and open state. Figure 20 As shown, when door 1018 is in the closed state, transmission device 1000 is in a first configuration, thereby blocking access to the fluid communication device. Figure 21As shown, when door 1018 is in the open state, the transmission device 1000 is in a second configuration, thereby allowing access to the fluid communication device. In this embodiment, door 1018 is shown as including a hinge that allows door 1018 to swing or rotate between a closed state and an open state. Furthermore, door 1018 may include finger protection structures (e.g., protrusions, extensions, bulges, and / or any other suitable features) configured to prevent accidental contact with the fluid communication device when door 1018 is opened. In other embodiments, the door may be configured to be able to transition between a closed state and an open state in any suitable manner.

[0109] Figure 22 The illustration shows a portion of a transfer device 1100 according to another embodiment. The transfer device 1100 includes a housing 1110 and a fluid communication device 1130 disposed within the housing 1110. In this example, the transfer device 1100 includes a door 1118 that selectively closes and opens to allow access to the fluid communication device 1130. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the door 1118 may include grips, winglets, protrusions, and / or features that can be engaged by a portion of a fluid collection device to switch the door 1118 between a closed and open state, thereby reducing the risk of contamination associated with a user contacting the door 1118.

[0110] Figure 23 The illustration shows a portion of a transmission device 1200 according to another embodiment. The transmission device 1200 includes a housing 1210 and a fluid communication device 1230 disposed within the housing 1210. In this example, the transmission device 1200 includes two doors 1218 that collectively transition between a closed state and an open state to allow access to the fluid communication device 1230. Furthermore, in this embodiment, each door 1218 may include an engagement feature disposed on the outside of the housing 1210, which can be manipulated by a user to open or close the door 1218. For example, in some implementations, a user can apply an inward force to the engagement feature, which in turn moves the door 1218 in an outward direction to an open state.

[0111] Figure 24The illustration shows a portion of a transmission device 1300 according to another embodiment. The transmission device 1300 includes a housing 1310 and a fluid connector 1330 disposed within the housing 1310. In this example, the transmission adapter 1300 includes an inner sheath 1319 that at least partially covers and / or blocks access to the fluid connector 1330. The housing 1310 may include and / or may form an elliptical opening and / or similar structure that selectively receives a portion of the inner sheath 1319. More specifically, at least a portion of the inner sheath 1319 may have a substantially circular shape with a diameter larger than the narrow portion of the elliptical opening formed by the housing 1310. In this embodiment, the housing 1310 is configured to be compressible by a user to transform and / or deform a portion of the housing 1310, such that the elliptical opening is compressed or deformed into a circular opening with a diameter larger than the diameter of the inner sheath 1319. In this way, the user can insert the fluid collection device into the housing 1310 and can compress or move the inner sheath in a proximal direction, exposing at least part of the fluid communication device 1330 through the circular opening.

[0112] Figure 25 The illustration shows a portion of a transmission device 1400 according to another embodiment. The transmission device 1400 includes a housing 1410 and a fluid communication device 1430 disposed within the housing 1410. In this example, the housing 1410 has a substantially elliptical shape and / or an elliptical opening at its distal end. Furthermore, one or more shoulders 1419 may be formed at the distal end of the housing 1410, which at least partially obstruct or close the internal volume of the housing 1410. As described above with reference to the transmission device 1300, in this example, the housing 1410 of the transmission device 1400 is configured to be compressible or squeezed by a user, causing the distal end of the housing 1410 to deform to increase the size of the opening formed by the one or more shoulders 1419. For example, the housing 1410 may be compressed or squeezed such that the opening formed by the one or more shoulders 1419 has a shape and / or size sufficient to receive at least a portion of a fluid collection device passing through it.

[0113] Figure 26The illustration shows a portion of a transfer device 1500 according to another embodiment. The transfer device 1500 includes a housing 1510 and a fluid communication device 1530 disposed within the housing 1510. In this example, the transfer device 1500 includes a door 1518 movably or releasably coupled to the housing 1510. As shown, the transfer device 1500 also includes a release mechanism 1521 that can be operated by a user to release and / or otherwise allow the door 1518 to transition from a closed state to an open state. For example, the release mechanism 1521 may be a trigger, latch, actuator, and / or the like. As described above, when the door 1518 is in the closed state, the door 1518 may restrict and / or block access to the fluid communication device 1530, and when the door 1518 is in the open state, the door 1518 may allow a fluid collection device to access the fluid communication device 1530.

[0114] Figure 27 The illustration shows a portion of a transmission device 1600 according to another embodiment. The transmission device 1600 includes a housing 1610 and a fluid communication device 1630 disposed within the housing 1610. In this example, the transmission device 1600 includes a door 1618 movably or releasably coupled to the housing 1610. As shown, the transmission device 1600 also includes a release mechanism 1621 that a user can manipulate to release and / or otherwise allow the door 1618 to transition from a closed state to an open state. For example, in this embodiment, the release mechanism 1621 may be a cam or the like that can be pivoted or rotated to release the door 1618. As described above, when the door 1618 is in the closed state, the door 1618 may restrict and / or block access to the fluid communication device 1630, and when the door 1618 is in the open state, the door 1618 may allow a fluid collection device to access the fluid communication device 1630.

[0115] Any transmission apparatus described herein may include one or more features, portions, and / or arrangements configured to enhance, improve, and / or benefit the user interface. In some implementations, enhancing, improving, benefiting, and / or controlling the user interface can limit and / or reduce security and / or contamination risks by at least partially controlling how the user engages with at least a portion of the transmission apparatus and / or interfaces.

[0116] For example, Figure 28The illustration shows a portion of a transfer device 1700 according to another embodiment. The transfer device 1700 includes a housing 1710 and a fluid communication device 1730 disposed within the housing 1710. In this example, the housing 1710 may include an extended and / or outwardly projecting end portion or flange capable of, for example, increasing the distance between the end of the fluid communication device 1730 and the distal edge of the housing 1710. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the distal end portion or flange of the housing 1710 may project outward sufficiently to allow insertion of any suitable fluid collection device into the housing 1710 and placement in fluid communication with the fluid communication device 1730. In this implementation, the housing 1710 and / or its outwardly projecting distal end portion or flange may improve and / or facilitate a user interface providing, for example, a horizontal or substantially horizontal (or other surface) surface that allows the user to apply downward or distal forces on the housing 1710, facilitating coupling of the transfer device to a fluid collection device (e.g., a sample bottle).

[0117] Figure 29 The illustration shows a portion of a transmission device 1800 according to another embodiment. The transmission device 1800 includes a housing 1810 and a fluid connector 1830 disposed within the housing 1810. In this example, the proximal connector of the transmission device 1800 is physically and fluidly coupled to a flow guide and / or isolation device 1885. The distal portion of the housing 1810 may include one or more annular elements 1822 that can be engaged by a user's fingers. In this way, the annular elements 1822 can provide a safe way for the user to engage and / or retain the transmission device 1800, for example, when the user inserts a fluid collection device.

[0118] Figure 30 The illustration shows a portion of a transmission device 1900 according to another embodiment. The transmission device 1900 includes a housing 1910 and a fluid connector 1930 disposed within the housing 1910. In this example, the proximal connector of the transmission device 1900 is physically and fluidly coupled to a flow guide and / or isolation device 1985. The proximal portion of the housing 1910 may include one or more handles, fins, hooks, arms, etc. (referred to herein as "handle 1922") that can be engaged by a user's fingers. In this way, the handle 1922 can provide a safe way for the user to engage and / or retain the transmission device 1900, for example, when the user inserts a fluid collection device.

[0119] Figure 31The illustration shows a portion of a transmission device 2000 according to another embodiment. The transmission device 2000 includes a housing 2010 and a fluid communication device 2030 disposed within the housing 2010. In this example, a proximal connector 2023 of the transmission device 2000 is physically and fluidly coupled to a flow guide and / or isolation device 2085. More specifically, in this embodiment, the proximal connector 2023 forms a bend or similar portion that can position the flow guide and / or isolation device 2085 in a desired orientation when coupled to the proximal connector 2023. In some embodiments, for example, the proximal connector 2023 may form a 90° or substantially 90° bend that can position the flow guide and / or isolation device 2085 in an orthogonal or perpendicular orientation relative to the housing 2010 of the transmission device 2000. In some embodiments, this arrangement can improve and / or enhance the visibility of the user interface associated with the transmission device 2000 and / or a portion of the flow guide and / or isolation device 2085.

[0120] Figure 32 The figure illustrates a portion of a transmission device 2100 according to another embodiment. The transmission device 2100 includes a housing 2110 and a fluid communication device 2130 disposed within the housing 2110. In this example, a proximal connector 2123 of the transmission device 2100 is physically and fluidly coupled to a flow guide and / or isolation device 2185. More specifically, in this embodiment, the proximal connector 2123 forms a bend or similar portion that can position the flow guide and / or isolation device 2185 in a desired orientation when coupled to the proximal connector 2123. In some embodiments, for example, the proximal connector 2123 may form a 90° or substantially 90° bend that can position the flow guide and / or isolation device 2185 in an orthogonal or perpendicular orientation relative to the housing 2110 of the transmission device 2100. Furthermore, the orientation and / or arrangement of the flow guide and / or isolation device 2185 relative to the housing 2110 can be such that the fluid communication device 2130 extends from a substantially central portion of the flow guide and / or isolation device 2185. In some embodiments, this arrangement may improve and / or enhance the visibility of the user interface associated with the transmission device 2100 and / or a portion of the diversion and / or isolation device 2185.

[0121] Figure 33The illustration shows a portion of a transmission device 2200 according to another embodiment. The transmission device 2200 includes a housing 2210 and a fluid connector 2230 disposed within the housing 2210. In this example, the proximal connector 2223 of the transmission device 2200 can be physically and fluidly coupled to a flow guide and / or isolation device (not shown). The distal portion of the housing 2210 may include one or more handles, fins, hooks, arms, etc. (referred to herein as "handle 2221") that can be engaged by a user's fingers. In this way, the handle 2221 provides a safe way for the user to engage and / or retain the transmission device 2200, for example, when the user inserts a fluid collection device. Furthermore, one or more handles in the handle 2221 can be reconfigured between a first state or configuration and a second state or configuration. For example, in some implementations, at least one handle 2221 may have a first state and / or configuration and a second state and / or configuration. In the first state and / or configuration, the handle 2221 extends from one side of the housing 2210. In the second state and / or configuration, the handle 2221 can be compressed or reconfigured and inserted into a portion of the housing 2210 to block and / or substantially restrict access to the fluid communication device 2230. In this way, the handle 2221 can be configured to enhance the user interface associated with the transmission device 2200 and provide additional safety features to prevent unintended contact with the fluid communication device 2230.

[0122] Figure 34 The illustration shows a portion of a transfer device 2300 according to another embodiment. The transfer device 2300 includes a housing 2310 and a fluid communicator 2330 disposed within the housing 2310. In this example, the housing 2310 may have an inner surface (or a portion thereof) comprising a molded overmolded section 2326 formed of a relatively soft and / or relatively high-friction material. In this way, when a fluid collecting device is inserted into the housing 2310, the molded overmolded section 2326 is able to contact the surface of the fluid collecting device, and the frictional force therebetween is sufficient to hold the fluid collecting device in a fixed position relative to the transfer device 2310, at least temporarily. In some cases, this arrangement may, for example, allow a user to release his or her grip on the transfer device 2310 without the fluid collecting device detaching from or falling off the transfer device 2310.

[0123] Figure 35The illustration shows a flowchart of a method 10 using a transmission adapter according to one implementation. The transmission adapter can be substantially similar to any transmission adapter described herein. In some implementations, the transmission adapter can be substantially similar to transmission adapter 200 (e.g., may include, for example, an optional remote connector and / or similar and / or may be used with, for example, an optional remote connector and / or similar), and / or may be used in a manner substantially similar to that of transmission adapter 200. In some implementations, the transmission adapter can be substantially similar to transmission adapter 300 (e.g., does not include, for example, an optional remote connector and / or similar and / or is not used with, for example, an optional remote connector and / or similar), and / or may be used in a manner substantially similar to that of transmission adapter 300. In any implementation, the transmission adapter may include at least a housing, a fluid communication device disposed within the housing, a lock coupled to a distal portion of the housing, and a movable worktable within the housing.

[0124] As shown in the figure, method 10 includes connecting the fluid collection device to a proximal connector of the delivery adapter at 11. The fluid collection device can be any fluid collection device described herein. For example, in some implementations, the fluid collection device can be a syringe, as referenced above. Figure 2-10 The transmission adapter 200 shown is described. In other implementations, the proximal connector may be directly or indirectly coupled to a source of bodily fluids (e.g., via a needle, catheter, access device, delivery device, diversion device, isolation device, and / or any other suitable device). For example, in some implementations, the proximal connector may be coupled to a fluid delivery device, such as any fluid delivery device described in '420, '241, '950, '774, '576, '864, '240, '117, '074, '087, '303, '039, and / or '732 applications).

[0125] The lock, coupled to the distal portion of the housing, changes from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration at point 12. As described above with reference to adapters 100, 200, and / or 300, the lock can rotate relative to the housing to switch between the locked and unlocked configurations. In other implementations, the lock can move in a linear motion, may be a button or toggle key, and / or may switch in any other manner. As described above, the lock in the locked configuration can selectively engage the worktable to hold it in a distal or biased position, in which the worktable restricts and / or substantially prevents access to the fluid communication device via the distal portion of the housing (e.g., the worktable may include a seal or the like capable of isolating the distal portion of the housing opening from the fluid communication device disposed within the housing). In some implementations, this sealing, blocking, and / or isolation may be a combined result of, for example, the worktable and a sheath that may at least temporarily surround the distal portion of the fluid communication device.

[0126] Changing the lock from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration disengages the lock from the worktable, thereby allowing the worktable to move in response to an applied force. Method 10 includes moving the worktable from a first or distal position to a second or proximal position, in which the worktable restricts access to a fluid communication device disposed within the internal volume of the housing, and in the second or proximal position, at least a portion of the fluid communication device extends through, beyond, and / or to the distal side of the worktable, at point 13. Accordingly, when the worktable is in the second position, fluid flow is allowed to enter or exit the fluid collection device via the fluid communication device, at point 14.

[0127] In some implementations, for example, the worktable can move in response to the distal portion of the housing being coupled to the distal connector, as described above with reference to transmission adapter 200. In this implementation, the proximal connector can be coupled to a syringe or the like, and the distal connector can be coupled (directly or indirectly) to a source of bodily fluid. Thus, a user can operate the syringe to aspirate bodily fluid from the source, pass it through the distal connector, through the fluid communication device and the proximal connector, and into the syringe.

[0128] In other implementations, the stage may move in response to the second fluid collection device being coupled to and / or inserted into the distal portion of the housing, as described above with reference to the transfer adapter 300. In this implementation, the second fluid collection device may be, for example, a culture flask or the like, and the proximal connector may be (directly or indirectly) coupled to a body fluid source. Thus, a user can aspirate body fluid from the body fluid source, pass it through the proximal connector, through the fluid communication device, and into the culture flask.

[0129] While method 10 described above is intended to allow bodily fluid to flow from a bodily fluid source into a syringe and / or a second collection device (e.g., a culture flask), in some implementations, method 10 may also be performed by transferring bodily fluid from the syringe to the second collection device and / or otherwise include transferring bodily fluid from the syringe to the second collection device. For example, a transfer adapter with an optional distal connector can be used to aspirate a volume of bodily fluid from a bodily fluid source into the syringe, as described above. After receiving the desired volume of bodily fluid, the optional distal connector can be removed from the transfer adapter, and the worktable can be allowed to return to the distal, biased, or first position. In some cases, the user may optionally switch the lock to a locking configuration.

[0130] In this implementation, it is desirable to transfer at least a portion of the bodily fluid contained in the syringe to a separate fluid collection device, such as a sample vial, culture flask, testing equipment, and / or the like. Thus, if not already in the second or unlocked configuration, the user can switch the lock back to the second or unlocked configuration and insert a portion of the culture flask into the distal portion of the housing, as described with reference to the use of a transfer adapter without an optional distal connector. Insertion of the culture flask or the like results in its surface being placed in contact with the worktable, and with the lock in the second or unlocked configuration, further insertion causes the worktable to move and / or shift from a distal position to a proximal position. Accordingly, the uncovered distal portion of the fluid communicator can extend relatively distally to the worktable and can pierce and / or otherwise insert into a portion of the culture flask, thereby establishing fluid communication between the syringe and the culture flask. Thus, the user can operate the plunger of the syringe or rely on the vacuum filling (e.g., negative pressure differential) of the culture flask to transfer the desired volume of bodily fluid from the syringe to the culture flask via the transfer adapter without the need for additional devices and / or components that might otherwise introduce potential points of contamination.

[0131] While various embodiments have been described above, it should be understood that they are presented by way of example only and not as limitations. The arrangement of components may be modified if the above schematic diagrams and / or embodiments indicate a particular component arranged in a particular orientation or location. Although embodiments have been specifically shown and described, it is understood that various changes in form and detail may be made. Although the various embodiments are described as having specific combinations of features, concepts, and / or components, other embodiments may have any combination or sub-combination of any features, concepts, and / or components from any of the embodiments described herein.

[0132] The specific configurations of the various components can also differ. For example, the size and specific shape of the various components may differ from the illustrated embodiment while still providing the functionality described herein. In some embodiments, changing the size and / or shape of these components can reduce the overall size of the device and / or increase the ergonomics of the device without changing its functionality. In some embodiments, the size and / or shape of the various components can be specifically selected for the desired or intended use. Therefore, it should be understood that unless the context clearly indicates otherwise, the size, shape, and / or arrangement of the embodiments and / or their components can be adapted to a particular purpose.

[0133] For example, while worktables 240 and 340 are described as moving or shifting via bias members 235 and 335, respectively, in other embodiments, worktables 240 and / or 340 may be manually actuated, moved, and / or shifted. For example, in some embodiments, the transmission adapter may include actuators, fins, sliders, buttons, and / or other suitable features directly or indirectly coupled to the worktable. In these embodiments, a user can apply force to the features to move them, which in turn allows the worktable to move between a first configured and / or position (e.g., a distal or locked position) and a second configured and / or position (e.g., a proximal or unlocked position).

[0134] While locks 150, 250, and / or 350 are described as annular elements respectively coupled to housings 110, 210, and / or 310 and configured to rotate relative to housings 110, 210, and / or 310, in other embodiments, the transmission adapter or device may include any suitable lock. For example, in some embodiments, the lock may be configured to move in a translational motion between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. In other embodiments, the lock may be configured to transition between any number of states with substantially no movement (e.g., translation or rotation). In other embodiments, the transmission device need not include a lock. In these embodiments, for example, the worktable may be manually actuated and / or held at least temporarily in a fixed position based on the amount of friction between one or more components and / or via any other suitable means. Similarly, in some embodiments, the distal connector or any other suitable connection (e.g., distal connector 225) may be at least temporarily coupled to the housing via friction or any other suitable coupling or engagement. In some embodiments, the transmission device need not include a lock or a worktable. In these embodiments, any feature, concept, and / or embodiment (or part thereof) may be used to limit and / or block access to the fluid communication vessel to reduce potential sources of contamination.

[0135] While the proximal connector 220 of the delivery device 200 is described as being coupled to connector 292 of syringe 290, in other embodiments, the delivery adapter may be coupled to any suitable part of the syringe and / or other device. For example, in some embodiments, the syringe may be configured to allow a plunger, actuator, and / or the like to be in fluid communication with the internal volume or fluid reservoir of the syringe. In these embodiments, the plunger, actuator, and / or the like may include a port or connector that can be coupled to a connector of the delivery device or adapter, similar to the proximal connectors 120, 220, and / or 320 described herein. More specifically, while the delivery adapter 300 is described as being connected to the fluid delivery device via proximal connector 320, in some implementations, proximal connector 320 may be coupled to such a port of the syringe. In this way, the delivery adapter 320 may be coupled to the actuator or plunger of the syringe and may extend from the proximal side of the syringe and / or otherwise be disposed on the proximal side of the syringe. In some embodiments, such an arrangement may be substantially similar to the syringe and transfer adapter combination described, for example, in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2016 / 0361006 (“006 Publication”), filed June 13, 2016, entitled “Devices and Methods for Syringe-Based FluidTransfer for Bodily-Fluid Sampling,” the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0136] In some implementations, the syringe may include a valve or other flow control device that can control, modulate, regulate, open / stop, etc., the flow entering and / or passing through the syringe, which can facilitate the use of a transfer adapter coupled to the proximal side of the syringe (as described above). In some implementations, the valve or the like may be integrally formed in a connector or connector, such as that of the syringe or other fluid collection device, or may be a separate component coupled to or included in a connector or connector, such as that of the syringe or other fluid collection device. For example, Figure 36 The illustration shows a portion of a syringe 2490, which includes a connector 2492 having a valve 2448. In this embodiment, the valve 2448 may be movably disposed in the connector 2492 of the syringe 2490. The valve 2448 may, for example, include a pair of seals 2449 spaced apart at a predetermined distance to selectively engage portions of the inner surface of the syringe 2490 (or its connector 2492). The valve 2448 may define a passage with its outlet disposed between the seals 2449.

[0137] In this embodiment, before the connector 2492 of the syringe 2490 is coupled to a corresponding connector of another device, the valve 2448 may be in a first configuration and / or position (e.g., distal position), wherein the outlet of the passage is disposed within an annular space defined by the inner surface of the syringe 2490, the outer surface of the valve 2448, and the two seals 2449. Furthermore, the corresponding connector for coupling the connector 2492 to the other device can be operated to change and / or move the valve 2448 from the first configuration and / or position (e.g., distal position) to a second configuration and / or position (e.g., proximal position).

[0138] In some implementations, proximal movement of valve 2448 can cause proximal seal 2449 to move away from the inner surface of syringe 2490, thereby separating it. Accordingly, the passage of valve 2448 is now in fluid communication with the internal volume of syringe 2490 via its outlet. Therefore, a user can operate syringe 2490 by moving the actuator or plunger of syringe 2490 in the proximal direction, which creates a negative pressure differential or suction within syringe 2490, operable to draw a flow of bodily fluid through the passage and the outlet of valve 2448 into the internal volume of syringe 2490.

[0139] As described above, the actuator and / or plunger 2493 of syringe 2490 may define channels, cavities, etc., configured to allow sampling of a volume of bodily fluid contained in syringe 2490, for example, as described in disclosure '006'. For example, after a volume of bodily fluid has been transferred into syringe 2490 (e.g., by moving plunger 2493 away from valve 2448 in a proximal direction), a transfer adapter (e.g., transfer adapters 100, 200, and / or 300) may be coupled to the actuator and / or plunger 2493 such that a fluid communication port of the transfer adapter is in fluid communication with a channel extending through plunger 2493. Furthermore, a fluid collection device, such as a culture flask or the like, may be inserted into the transfer adapter such that the fluid communication port is in fluid communication with the internal volume of the culture flask. In this way, plunger 2493 can move, for example, in a distal direction, thereby increasing the pressure within syringe 2490, which is operable to drain at least a portion of the bodily fluid contained therein through the channel of plunger 2493, through the fluid communication device, and into the culture flask. Valve 2448 can facilitate this sampling because the increase in pressure within syringe 2490 can move valve 2448 to a distal position (if not already in a distal position), which is operable to fluidly isolate and / or seal the opening of valve 2448 from the internal volume of syringe 2490 proximal to at least one seal of valve 2448. Thus, valve 2448 prevents the bodily fluid within syringe 2490 from draining through syringe connector 2492, thereby facilitating and / or allowing sampling from syringe 2490 (e.g., via a transfer adapter and fluid collection device coupled thereto).

[0140] Any number of portions and / or features of the embodiments described herein can be used (or modified for use) with any suitable fluid delivery device, fluid collection device, fluid storage device, and / or the like. For example, in some implementations, the proximal adapter 320 of delivery device 300 may be physically and / or fluidly coupled to a syringe, as described above with reference to delivery device 200. Alternatively, the proximal adapter 320 may be physically and / or fluidly coupled to any other suitable device. For example, in some implementations, the delivery device or adapter may be coupled to a device configured to collect, divert, isolate, separate, etc., initial volumes of bodily fluid that are more likely to contain contaminants expelled during venipuncture or similar procedures. In some cases, contaminants (such as dermal resident microorganisms or the like) may be contained in the isolated initial volume of bodily fluid, such that subsequent volumes of bodily fluid delivered to and / or via the delivery device or adapter are substantially free of contaminants associated with proximity to the source of the bodily fluid (e.g., a vein). Examples of such devices may include any devices and / or embodiments described, for example, in '420, '241, '950, '774, '576, '864, '240, '117, '074, '087, '303, '039 and / or '732 applications, which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0141] While the use of one or more methods or method steps using the apparatus may be described herein as including certain ordered steps, in other embodiments, the order of certain events and / or procedures in any method or process described herein may be modified, and these modifications are variations of the invention. Furthermore, certain events and / or procedures may be executed concurrently in parallel processes where possible, or sequentially as described above. Certain steps may be partially completed or may be omitted before proceeding to subsequent steps. For example, although the apparatus is described as transitioning from a first state or configuration to a second state or configuration in discrete operation or similar circumstances, it should be understood that the apparatus described herein may be configured to transition automatically and / or passively from a first state or configuration to a second state or configuration, and such transition may occur over a period of time. In other words, the transition from the first state to the second state may be relatively gradual in some cases.

Claims

1. An apparatus comprising: A housing having a proximal portion and a distal portion, and defining an internal volume; A proximal connector is coupled to the proximal portion of the housing and configured to be physically and fluidly coupled to a fluid collection device; A distal connector, which can be connected to a distal portion of the housing, is configured to be in fluid communication with a source of bodily fluids. A fluid communication device disposed within the internal volume of a housing; as well as A lock, coupled to a housing, has a first configuration in which the lock couples a distal connector to the housing such that a portion of a fluid communication device extends through a seal of the distal connector to establish fluid communication between the distal connector and a proximal portion of the housing. The fluid collection device is configured to receive a volume of bodily fluid via the fluid communication device when the lock is in the first configuration and the distal connector is coupled to the housing. The lock is configured to transition from the first configuration to a second configuration to allow removal of the distal connector from the housing. The lock includes a worktable that is at least temporarily held in a first position when the lock is in a first configuration, and that allows movement to a second position when the lock is in a second configuration. The worktable also restricts access to the fluid communication device when the lock is in the first configuration and the distal connector is removed. In the event of removal of the distal connector, the lock is configured to switch from a second configuration to a first configuration to prevent the worktable from moving from a first position to a second position, thereby restricting access to the fluid communication device via the distal portion of the housing.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The fluid communication device is a needle with a sharpened distal portion, and the worktable is configured to restrict access to the sharpened distal portion of the needle when the worktable is in a first position.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The distal portion of the housing is configured to receive a portion of the sample reservoir when the lock is in the second configuration and the distal connector is removed from the housing. The fluid communication device is configured to extend into the sample reservoir when the portion of the sample reservoir is disposed in the housing, so as to allow at least a portion of the volume of bodily fluid to be transferred from the fluid collection device to the sample reservoir via the fluid communication device.

4. An apparatus comprising: A housing having a proximal portion and a distal portion and defining an internal volume, the proximal portion having a proximal connector configured to be physically and fluidly coupled to a fluid collection device; A distal connector, which can be connected to a distal portion of the housing, is configured to be in fluid communication with a source of bodily fluids. A fluid communication device, which is disposed within the internal volume of the housing and fluidly connected to a proximal connector; A worktable, which is disposed in a housing and is movable between a first position and a second position; A lock is attached to the housing and can switch between a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration. In the locked configuration, the lock holds the worktable in a first position, and in the unlocked configuration, the lock disengages from the worktable to allow the worktable to move to a second position. as well as A biasing member disposed within the housing and in contact with the proximal side of the worktable is configured to bias the worktable in a first position such that the worktable prevents access to the fluid communication device via the distal portion of the housing. The biasing member allows the worktable to move to a second position in response to a force applied to the distal side of the worktable when the lock is in an unlocked configuration, such that a portion of the fluid communication device extends through the worktable, thereby allowing access to the fluid communication device via the distal portion of the housing.

5. The device according to claim 4, wherein, The fluid communication device is a needle with a sharpened distal portion, and the worktable is configured to restrict access to the sharpened distal portion of the needle when in a first position.

6. The device according to claim 4, wherein, The fluid connector allows body fluid to be transferred to the fluid collection device when the lock is in the unlocked configuration and the proximal connector is engaged with the fluid collection device.

7. The device according to claim 6, wherein, The fluid collection device is a syringe.

8. The device according to claim 4, wherein, The distal connector includes a seal, at least a portion of the fluid communication device extending through the seal of the distal connector when the distal connector is coupled to a distal portion of the housing, to fluidly connect the distal connector to the fluid communication device.

9. A method of using a transmission adapter, comprising: A fluid collection device is connected to a proximal connector of a transmission adapter, the transmission adapter having a housing having a proximal portion and a distal portion, the proximal connector being disposed along the proximal portion, and the transmission adapter including a fluid communication device disposed in the internal volume of the housing and fluidly connected to the proximal connector; The lock connected to the remote portion of the housing is switched from a locked configuration to an unlocked configuration, the lock being configured to engage the worktable in the locked configuration to hold the worktable in a first position, and the lock being configured to disengage the worktable in the unlocked configuration to allow the worktable to move to a second position; While the lock is in the unlocked configuration, a portion of the remote connector is inserted into the distal portion of the housing, and the movement of the worktable responds to the insertion of said portion of the remote connector; In response to the insertion of the portion of the distal connector, a worktable disposed in the internal volume of the housing is moved from a first position to a second position, in which the worktable restricts access to the fluid communication device via the distal portion of the housing, and in the second position, at least a portion of the fluid communication device extends through the worktable; Switch the lock from an unlocked configuration to a locked configuration to temporarily connect the remote connector to the housing; as well as When the worktable is in the second position, bodily fluids are allowed to flow into or out of the fluid collection device connected to the proximal connector via the fluid communicator.

10. The method of claim 9, further comprising: While the lock is in the unlocked configuration, a portion of the sample reservoir is inserted into the distal portion of the housing, and the movement of the worktable responds to the insertion of said portion of the sample reservoir.

11. The method according to claim 10, wherein, The fluid collection device is a needle in fluid communication with a source of bodily fluid, allowing bodily fluid to flow into or out of the fluid collection device via a fluid connector, including allowing bodily fluid to flow from the needle through the fluid connector to a sample reservoir.

12. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The fluid collection device is a syringe.

13. The method according to claim 9, wherein, The insertion of the distal connector causes at least a portion of the fluid communication vessel to extend through a seal in the distal connector to fluidly connect the distal connector to the fluid communication vessel.

14. The method according to claim 13, wherein, The distal connector is in fluid communication with a source of bodily fluid, allowing bodily fluid to flow into or out of a fluid collection device via the fluid connector, including allowing bodily fluid to flow from the source of bodily fluid to a syringe via the fluid connector.

Images