Suspension type blister packaging connector wiping device

Abstract

A sterilising strip includes a plurality of individual blister packs removably connected to each other by perforations, each of the plurality of individual blister packs having a cavity within a first surface of the plurality of individual blister packs. The cavity is sealed by a membrane, and an absorption medium is disposed within the cavity and sealed by the membrane, the absorption medium being saturated and infiltrated by a disinfectant liquid or gel. Since the disinfection strip is made of a high barrier material, the disinfection strip can withstand EtO disinfection.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of medical sterilization devices and systems, and in particular to sterilization caps for use with intravenous needleless connectors. Background Art

[0002] Vascular access devices (VADs) are commonly used therapeutic devices and include intravenous (IV) catheters. There are two general classifications of VADs: peripheral catheters and central venous catheters. When delivering fluids or medications to a patient, bacteria and other microorganisms may enter the patient's vascular system from the access connector and ports / valves when connected to the VAD. Each access connector, connector, port, or valve is associated with some risk of transmitting a catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI), which can be costly and potentially fatal.

[0003] To reduce CRBSI cases and ensure that VADs are used and maintained properly, standards of practice have been developed that include sterilization and cleaning procedures. Sterilization caps have been added to the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America (SHEA) guidelines and have also been incorporated into the Infusion Nurses Standards (INS) guidelines.

[0004] In developed markets, when IV catheters are utilized, a needleless connector will typically be used to close the system and then subsequently access the needleless connector to administer medication or other necessary fluids to the patient via the IV catheter. The INS Standard of Practice recommends the use of needleless connectors and states that “consistent and thorough disinfection using alcohol, iodine, or a chlorhexidine gluconate / alcohol combination should be performed prior to each access.” Disinfection of needleless connectors is ultimately intended to help reduce bacteria that may live on the surface and may cause a variety of catheter-related complications, including CRBSI. Nurses typically accomplish this disinfection task by performing what is known as a “swab interface” using a 70% isopropyl alcohol (IPA) pad. However, compliance with this practice and the level of disinfection often depends on the ability and competency of the user. In addition to the lack of compliance with “wiping interfaces,” it was noted through interviews with clinicians that swab times, drying times, and the number of times needleless connectors were wiped often varied.

[0005] However, sterile caps are typically injection molded closures with a device added to seal the open end of the injection mold. In addition, sterile caps are typically packaged individually and sterilized individually during packaging, or removably adhered to a strip and packaged with multiple sterile caps. These common devices and systems require multiple steps of manufacturing, sterilization, and various methods of injection molding, assembly, and packaging.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need in the art to provide a multi-package sterilization device and system that can provide low-cost manufacturing, low-complexity assembly and ease of use. In particular, there is a need to provide a hanging blister package connector wiping device that provides a convenient sterilization unit for wiping the interface before accessing the pipeline. Summary of the invention

[0007] A first aspect of the present disclosure relates to a disinfection strip, the disinfection strip comprising a body having a first end and a second end defining a length of the body, and a first inner edge and a second inner edge, a plurality of individual blister packages connected in series and disposed between the first inner edge and the second inner edge of the body. The first end and the first inner edge form a first tab, and the second end and the second inner edge form a second tab. Each individual blister package has a body having a first end and a second end defining a length of the body. Each individual blister package is connected to an adjacent blister package by a perforated portion. The first end of the individual blister package is connected to the first inner edge of the first tab, each individual blister package also having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a pocket extending from the top surface of the individual blister package, the pocket having an open end in the bottom surface, thereby defining a cavity. The disinfection strip also includes an absorbent medium disposed in the cavity and sealed by a high barrier webbing foil. The absorbent medium is impregnated with a disinfectant fluid or gel.

[0008] In one or more embodiments, the first tab and the second tab include holes for hanging the disinfection strip on a hook. The holes may have a circular, oval, square, triangular or rectangular shape.

[0009] In one or more embodiments, the body of the disinfection strip further comprises a side section connecting the first tab and the second tab.The side section may be connected to the side edges of the plurality of individual blister packages.

[0010] In one or more embodiments, the body of the disinfection strip includes a side section connecting the first tab to the second tab.

[0011] In one or more embodiments, the second end of the blister pack is connected to the second inner edge of the second tab.

[0012] In one or more embodiments, the high barrier web foil includes weak points or fluid-tight perforations for puncturing the high barrier web foil upon application of an outer force to one or more wall surfaces of the bag.

[0013] In one or more embodiments, one or more edges of the high barrier web foil have pull tabs for peeling the high barrier web foil away from the bottom surface of the individual blister packages.

[0014] In one or more embodiments, the high barrier web foil has a thickness of less than 0.012 inches.

[0015] In one or more embodiments, the high barrier web foil is thermoformed onto the bottom surface of the individual blister packs.

[0016] In one or more embodiments, the absorbent medium is a sponge or a disinfecting wipe.

[0017] Another aspect of the present disclosure relates to a sterilization device comprising a plurality of individual blister packages removably connected to each other by perforations. The individual blister packages have a housing comprising a bottom web formed of a high barrier packaging film having a thickness of less than 0.012 inches. The high barrier packaging film is thermoformed into a non-circular profile, without internal thread features and without external ribs. In one or more embodiments, the housing has a non-circular profile shape. In one or more specific embodiments, the housing has a polygonal shape with rounded corners. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Figure 1 shows a top perspective view of a disinfection strip according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0019] Figure 2 shows a bottom perspective view of a disinfection strip according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0020] Figure 3 shows a top perspective view of a blister package of a disinfection strip according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure;

[0021] Figure 4 A side cross-sectional view of a blister pack of a sterilization strip according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0022] Figure 5 A top view of a blister pack of a sterilization strip according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0023] Figure 6 A bottom view of a blister pack of a sterilization strip is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 7 A left side view of a blister package of a sterilization strip is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 8 A right side view of a blister package of a disinfection strip is shown in accordance with one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0026] Fig. 9 A front view of a disinfection strip according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0027] Fig.10A rear side view of a disinfection strip according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown.

[0028] Fig.11 A top view of an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown having multiple parallel strips of a blister pack of sterilization strips according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0029] Fig.12 A bottom view of an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown having multiple parallel strips of a blister package of sterilization strips according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Fig.13 Shown is a left side view of an embodiment of the present disclosure having multiple parallel strips of a blister pack of sterilization strips according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0031] Fig.14 Shown is a right side view of an embodiment of the present disclosure having multiple parallel strips of a blister pack of sterilization strips according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0032] Fig.15 Shown is a front view of an embodiment of the present disclosure having multiple parallel strips of a blister pack of sterilization strips according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0033] Fig.16 A rear view of an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown having multiple parallel strips of a blister pack of sterilization strips according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0034] Before describing several exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, it should be understood that the present disclosure is not limited to the details of construction or process steps set forth in the following description. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and can be practiced or carried out in various ways.

[0035] For the purposes of the description below, the terms "lateral," "medial," "longitudinal," and their derivatives shall relate to the present disclosure as they are oriented in the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the present disclosure may take alternative variations and step sequences unless expressly specified to the contrary. It should also be understood that the specific devices and processes shown in the drawings and described in the following specification are merely exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Therefore, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein should not be considered limiting.

[0036] As used herein, the use of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes both the singular and the plural.

[0037] As will be readily understood by those skilled in the relevant art, although descriptive terms such as "thread", "taper", "tab", "wall", "proximal", "side", "distal", "outside", etc. are used throughout the specification to facilitate understanding, they are not intended to limit any components that can be used in combination or alone to implement the various aspects of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0038] As used herein, the term "package" or "packaging" includes any material used to wrap or protect a medical device or product, such as plastic ampoules, medicine bottles with rubber stoppers, IV solution bags, IV solution bags, and syringes. Packages can be rigid or flexible. Packages include, but are not limited to, medical packaging, pharmaceutical packaging, and child-resistant packaging. Medical and pharmaceutical packaging can include plastic trays with webs, blister packs, flow packs, and bags with three or four side seals.

[0039] As used herein, the term "microorganism" refers to a microorganism or organism that is unicellular or lives in a colony of cellular organisms. Microorganisms are very diverse; they include, but are not limited to, bacteria, fungi, archaea, and protozoa.

[0040] As used herein, the term "sterilization" refers to a variety of techniques for weakening, killing or eliminating harmful or infectious substances. Examples of sterilization procedures include, for example, steam sterilization, ethylene oxide sterilization (EtO sterilization), gas plasma sterilization, ozone sterilization, hydrogen peroxide sterilization, heat sterilization, nitrogen dioxide sterilization or a combination thereof. In the manufacturing process, pre-filled medical devices (e.g., medicines or other injectable / infusible solutions packaged in breathable containers such as plastic ampoules, medicine bottles with rubber stoppers, IV solution bags, IV solution bags and pre-filled flushing syringes) are sterilized with a non-toxic or harmless sterilization process, such as steam sterilization in an autoclave. Other medical devices that are less sensitive can be sterilized with subsequent EtO sterilization without any adverse effects on the sterilized device. EtO sterilization can be considered to be more harmful to pre-filled medical devices.

[0041] As used herein, the term "ethylene oxide (EtO) sterilization" is a common method for preparing a kit of multiple medical devices or accessories for use in a sterile field. Currently, pre-filled saline syringes, plastic ampoules, medicine bottles with rubber stoppers, IV solution bags, and IV solution bags are packaged in a permeable package that is also permeable to EtO gas. Such a device can be made of glass or a high-barrier injection molding resin, which can protect the device itself or the contents inside from the effects of EtO gas. However, exposing a plastic ampoule, a medicine bottle with a rubber stopper, an IV solution bag, an IV solution bag, or a pre-filled syringe to EtO gas can cause an undesirable effect, namely, raising the pH of the contents such as saline in the plastic ampoule, the medicine bottle with a rubber stopper, the IV solution bag, the IV solution bag, or the pre-filled syringe. In order to overcome this undesirable effect, medical devices that are resistant to EtO gas are sterilized separately from medical devices that are not resistant to EtO gas. Typically, these separate medical devices are then combined into a kit, which can then be sterilized as a whole.

[0042] The term "high barrier" material as used herein refers to a material that is resistant to EtO gas and can be sterilized with EtO gas (substantially undergoes full EtO sterilization). Such materials may include, but are not limited to, high barrier resins, top web films, or aluminum alloy films.

[0043] The terms "disinfectant", "antiseptic" and "antimicrobial" refer to liquids and gels impregnated in an absorbent medium. The absorbent medium may include sponges, foams, or fabrics and synthetic wipes (commonly referred to as "alcohol wipes"). "Disinfectant", "antiseptic" and "antimicrobial" may include variants of alcohol or chlorhexidine. "Disinfectant", "antiseptic" and "antimicrobial" are selected from the group consisting essentially of isopropyl alcohol, ethanol, 2-propanol, butanol, methylparaben, ethylparaben, propylparaben, propyl gallate, butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA), butylated hydroxytoluene, tert-butylhydroquinone, chloroxylenol, chlorhexidine, chlorhexidine acetate, chlorhexidine gluconate, povidone iodine, alcohol, dichlorobenzyl alcohol, dehydroacetic acid, hexidine, triclosan, hydrogen peroxide, colloidal silver, benzethonium chloride, benzalkonium chloride, octenidine, antibiotics, and mixtures thereof. The "disinfectant", "antibacterial agent" and "antimicrobial agent" may include at least one of chlorhexidine gluconate and chlorhexidine acetate.

[0044] Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a disinfection device comprising a plurality of individual blister packages removably connected to each other by perforations. Each of the plurality of individual blister packages has a cavity within a first surface of the plurality of individual blister packages. The cavity is sealed by a membrane, and an absorbent medium is arranged in the cavity and sealed by the membrane, the absorbent medium being saturated with a disinfection fluid or gel. The disinfection device comprising the plurality of individual blister packages may be in the form of a strip and capable of EtO disinfection because it is made of a high barrier material. In one or more embodiments, the plurality of individual blister packages are arranged in the form of a strip having a hook eyelet or hook at one end to allow the disinfection device to be hung for easy access by clinical care. In one or more embodiments, the plurality of individual blister packages are arranged in the form of a strip having two holes or hook eyelets arranged at opposite ends of the strip formed by the plurality of individual blister packages to allow the disinfection device to be hung from either side of the strip for easy access by clinical care. In one or more embodiments, the disinfection device includes a plurality of blister pack wipe devices, which are manufactured together to form a single integral strip, wherein perforations separate individual blister packs to easily separate one or more blister packs from the strip. In one or more embodiments, the strip includes up to 10 individual blister packs, which are concatenated together to form a strip that is easy to hang on an intravenous (IV) infusion pole. The benefits provided by embodiments of the present disclosure are low-cost alcohol wipes with enhanced durability to allow for stronger mechanical cleaning, and with increased convenience to ensure that clinical care always has the appropriate materials when needed. An example of increased convenience is that there is a strip that can be hung on an IV infusion pole, and the strip includes multiple individual blister packs of alcohol wipes or disinfectant-soaked wipe devices, which are manufactured together to form a single integral strip, wherein perforations separate individual blister packs, allowing easy removal at the bedside of each patient, and ensuring that clinical care will wipe more frequently without having to worry about forgetting supplies. The hanging capability allows the disinfection unit to be conveniently located near the practitioner while preventing direct contact contamination or surface contamination from a patient bed or person, while still providing direct access for the practitioner to perform the required disinfection.

[0045] An additional benefit of the present disclosure is that packaging the alcohol wipe or disinfectant soaked wipe in a blister pack arrangement extends the durability and shelf life of the enclosed alcohol wipe or disinfectant soaked wipe while maintaining sterility by preventing deterioration caused by drying or moisture loss and protecting the contents from temperature fluctuations. Due to the hard shell of the blister pack, the foil package can be grasped and used as a component to hold the wipe or disinfectant soaked wipe while wiping, thereby minimizing contact contamination of the wipe or disinfectant soaked wipe. The blister packed wipes will be produced in the form of individual packages with perforations between the individual packages for easy tearing. At one or both ends of the strip, there will be an orifice, hook eyelet or hole in the strip to facilitate hanging along an IV infusion pole.

[0046] Figure 1 A top perspective view of the disinfection strip 100 is shown, Figure 2 A bottom perspective view of a sterilization strip 100 is shown having a plurality of individual blister packs 150 removably connected to one another by perforations. Figure 3 A top perspective view of an individual blister pack 150 is shown, Figure 4 A side cross-sectional view of an individual blister pack 150 is shown.

[0047] like Figure 1 and 2 As shown, the disinfection strip 100 includes a rectangular or square body 102 having a first end 104 and a second end 106 defining the length of the body 102. A plurality of individual blister packages 150 are connected in series to each other and are disposed between a first inner edge 107 and a second inner edge 108 of the disinfection strip 100.

[0048] The first end 104 and the first inner edge 107 form a first tab 110, and the second end 106 and the second inner edge 108 form a second tab 112. In some embodiments, the disinfection strip 100 does not include the second end 106, the second inner edge 108, and the second tab 112. In some embodiments, the first tab 110 and the second tab 112 include holes 114 for hanging the disinfection strip 100 on a hook of an IV pole or more generally a hook. In some embodiments, the hole 114 can have a circular, oval, square, triangular, or rectangular shape.

[0049] In some embodiments, the side segments 116 connect the first tab 110 and the second tab 112, and are also connected to the side edges 154 of the plurality of individual blister packages 150. In some embodiments, only one side segment 116 connects the first tab 110 and the second tab 112 and is connected to one side edge 154 of the plurality of individual blister packages 150. Each edge of each individual blister package 150 is connected to an adjacent edge of an adjacent individual blister package 150 through a perforated portion 120, and all side edges 154 of the plurality of individual blister packages 150 are connected to the side segments 116 through perforated portions 120.

[0050] like Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, the individual blister pack 150 includes a rectangular or square body 152 having a first end 156 and a second end 158 defining the length of the body 152. The plurality of individual blister packs 150 are connected by the second end 158 of the first individual blister pack 150a and the adjacent (second) individual blister pack 150b (e.g. Figure 1 The perforated portion 120 (as shown) between the first end 156 Figure 1 The first end 156 of the first individual blister pack 150a is connected to the first inner edge 107 of the first tab 110. In addition, the second end 158 of the nth blister pack 150n is connected to the second inner edge 108 of the second tab 112. As previously described, the side edges 154 of the individual blister packs 150 are connected to the side sections 116 of the disinfection strip 100.

[0051] The individual blister package 150 also includes a top surface 160 and a bottom surface 162, with a pocket 166 extending from the top surface 160, the pocket 166 having an open end 168 in the bottom surface 162, thereby defining a cavity 164. The open end is a tapered opening to facilitate entry and connection of the needleless connector to be wiped. The pocket 166 and cavity 164 can have a cube-shaped, rectangular parallelepiped, or polygonal shape and include an absorbent medium 170 disposed therein. The absorbent medium 170 can be a sponge, foam, or a fabric and synthetic wipe (commonly referred to as an "alcohol wipe") and is impregnated with a disinfectant. The cavity 164 is sealed by a high barrier web foil 172 (such as Figure 2164). The high barrier web foil 172 may include weak points or liquid-tight perforations for piercing the high barrier web foil 172 when an outer force is applied to one or more wall surfaces 174 of the bag 166. In some embodiments, one or more edges of the high barrier web foil 172 have pull tabs for peeling the high barrier web foil 172 away from the bottom surface 162 of the individual blister package 150. In some embodiments, the high barrier web foil 172 may have a thickness of less than 0.012 inches. In some embodiments, the high barrier web foil 172 is thermoformed onto the bottom surface 162 of the individual blister package 150.

[0052] In operation, the disinfection strip 100 can be hung on an IV line, or more generally, on a hook, through the hole 114 of the first tab 110 or the second tab 112. A user or practitioner can tear apart the individual blister packs 150 while the plurality of individual blister packs are still hanging from the disinfection strip 100. The user can then squeeze one or more wall surfaces 174 until the high barrier web foil 172 tears, at which point the user can access the absorbent medium 170 disposed therein. Alternatively, the user can tear the high barrier web foil 172 from the bottom surface 162 of the individual blister pack 150 by pulling a pull tab.

[0053] Figure 5 A blister pack having a plurality of individual blister packs 150 removably connected to each other by perforations according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1 A top view of the disinfection strip 100 is shown.

[0054] Figure 6 A blister pack having a plurality of individual blister packs 150 removably connected to each other by perforations according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 1 A bottom view of the disinfection strip 100 is shown.

[0055] Figure 7 A plurality of individual blister packages 150 are shown according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1 100 is a left side view of the disinfection strip 100.

[0056] Figure 8 A plurality of individual blister packages 150 are shown according to one or more embodiments of the present disclosure. Figure 1 Right side view of the disinfection strip 100.

[0057] Fig. 9 One or more embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Figure 1 Front view of disinfection strip 100.

[0058] Fig.10One or more embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Figure 1 A rear side view of the disinfection strip 100 is shown.

[0059] exist Fig.11 An alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown in FIG. Fig.11 A top view of an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown, with a unit comprising a plurality of parallel strips of a disinfection strip 100 having a plurality of individual blister packages 150 removably connected to one another by perforations. The plurality of parallel disinfection strips may be removably connected to one another by one or more perforations. It is contemplated that up to 10 parallel strips may be removably connected to one another by perforations.

[0060] like Figure 11-16 As shown, the disinfection strip 200 includes two or more disinfection strips 100 arranged in a parallel orientation. The two or more disinfection strips 100 arranged in a parallel orientation can be connected via a perforated portion or an adhesive to allow easy separation when the practitioner uses a separate blister package 150. In one or more embodiments, similar to Figure 1 The illustrated embodiment has a rectangular or square body 102 having a first end 104 and a second end 106 defining the length of the body 102. A plurality of individual blister packages 150 are connected in series to one another and disposed between a first inner edge 107 and a second inner edge 108 of the sterilization strip 100.

[0061] The first end 104 and the first inside edge 107 form a first tab 110, and the second end 106 and the second inside edge 108 form a second tab 112. In some embodiments, the disinfection strip 100 does not include the second end 106, the second inside edge 108, and the second tab 112. In some embodiments, the first tab 110 and the second tab 112 include holes 114 for hanging the disinfection strip 100 on a hook of an IV pole or more generally a hook. In some embodiments, the holes 114 can have a circular, oval, square, triangular, or rectangular shape.

[0062] In some embodiments, the side segments 116 connect the first tab 110 and the second tab 112, and are also connected to the side edges 154 of the plurality of individual blister packages 150. In some embodiments, only one side segment 116 connects the first tab 110 and the second tab 112 and is connected to one side edge 154 of the plurality of individual blister packages 150. Each edge of each individual blister package 150 is connected to an adjacent edge of an adjacent individual blister package 150 through a perforated portion 120, and all side edges 154 of the plurality of individual blister packages 150 are connected to the side segments 116 through perforated portions 120.

[0063] like Figure 3and Figure 4 As shown, the individual blister packages 150 include a rectangular or square body 152 having a first end 156 and a second end 158 defining the length of the body 152. The plurality of individual blister packages 150 are connected by the second end 158 of the first individual blister package 150a and the adjacent (second) individual blister package 150b (e.g. Figure 1 The perforated portion 120 (as shown) between the first end 156 Figure 1 The first end 156 of the first individual blister pack 150a is connected to the first inner edge 107 of the first tab 110. In addition, the second end 158 of the nth blister pack 150n is connected to the second inner edge 108 of the second tab 112. As previously described, the side edges 154 of the individual blister packs 150 are connected to the side sections 116 of the disinfection strip 100.

[0064] The individual blister package 150 further includes a top surface 160 and a bottom surface 162, wherein a pocket 166 extends from the top surface 160, the pocket 166 having an open end 168 in the bottom surface 162, thereby defining a cavity 164. The pocket 166 and the cavity 164 may have a cubic, rectangular, or polygonal shape and include an absorbent medium 170 disposed therein. The absorbent medium 170 may be a sponge, foam, or a fabric and synthetic wipe (commonly referred to as an "alcohol wipe") and is impregnated with a disinfectant. The cavity 164 is sealed by a high barrier web foil 172 (e.g., Figure 2 166). The high barrier web foil 172 may include a weak point or a liquid-tight perforation for piercing the high barrier web foil 172 when an outer force is applied to one or more wall surfaces 174 of the bag 166. In some embodiments, one or more edges of the high barrier web foil 172 have a pull tab for peeling the high barrier web foil 172 away from the bottom surface 162 of the individual blister package 150. In some embodiments, the high barrier web foil 172 may have a thickness of less than 0.012 inches. In some embodiments, the high barrier web foil 172 is thermoformed to the bottom surface 162 of the individual blister package 150. In operation, the disinfection strip 200 can be hung on an IV infusion line by the hole 114 of the first tab 110 or the second tab 112, or more generally hung on a hook. The user or practitioner can tear open an individual blister package 150 while multiple individual blister packages are still hanging on the disinfection strip 100. Then, the user can squeeze one or more wall surfaces 174 until the high barrier web foil 172 tears, at which point the user can access the absorbent medium 170 disposed therein. Alternatively, the user can tear the high barrier web foil 172 away from the bottom surface 162 of the individual blister package 150 by pulling a pull tab.

[0065] Fig.12A diagram showing multiple parallel strips of a blister package with a sterilization strip according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure Fig.11 Bottom view of the alternative embodiment shown.

[0066] Fig.13 A diagram showing multiple parallel strips of a blister package with a sterilization strip according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure Fig.11 Left side view of an alternative embodiment shown.

[0067] Fig.14 A diagram showing multiple parallel strips of a blister package 150 having a sterilization strip according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure Fig.11 Right side view of the alternative embodiment shown.

[0068] Fig.15 A diagram showing multiple parallel strips of a blister package with a sterilization strip according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure Fig.11 A front view of an alternative embodiment is shown.

[0069] Fig.16 A diagram showing multiple parallel strips of a blister package with a sterilization strip according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure Fig.11 Rear view of the alternative embodiment shown.

[0070] In some embodiments, components of the disinfection strip 100 are made of materials that are resistant to EtO gas and thus can undergo EtO sterilization. In particular, in some embodiments, the body 102 and high barrier web foil 172 of the disinfection strip 100 are made of foil or plastic that is resistant to EtO gas.

[0071] Since components of the sterilization strip 100 are resistant to EtO gas, and therefore capable of undergoing EtO sterilization, the sterilization strip 100 and a plurality of individual blister packs 150 can be manufactured and sealed as a package of a plurality of blister packs 150, and the entire package can then be subjected to EtO sterilization.

[0072] The sterilization strip of the present disclosure also provides the benefit that the cost of goods sold (COGS) is less than sterilization caps currently on the market due to the materials and manufacturing process of producing the bottom web packaging of the housing.

[0073] In one or more embodiments, the disinfection device includes a plurality of individual blister packages removably connected to each other by perforations, the individual blister packages having a housing including a bottom web formed of a high barrier packaging film having a thickness of less than 0.012 inches, wherein the high barrier packaging film is thermoformed into a non-circular profile, has no thread features on the interior and has no external ribs. In one or more embodiments, the housing has a non-circular profile shape. In one or more embodiments, the housing is a polygon with rounded corners.

[0074] The disinfection strip of the present disclosure includes a perforated disinfection unit that is convenient to use and thus increases compliance from clinical care. Currently, clinical care needs a convenient disinfection device to reduce the number of times that clinical care forgets to bring all the required disinfection supplies and thus results in performing a disinfection procedure without all the necessary supplies, or alternatively drops one of the required disinfection supplies while performing a disinfection procedure and completing the procedure without obtaining a new replacement disinfection supply to complete the disinfection procedure. The disinfection strip of the present disclosure attempts to address the aforementioned deficiencies of the disinfection supplies currently available to clinical care.

[0075] Another aspect of the disclosed packaging and disinfection strip is to provide a perforated disinfection strip that is strong enough to be held as a separate disinfection device once a separate disinfection unit is removed from the perforated disinfection strip. Thus, the disinfection device of the disclosed invention, while a cost saving item, can also be viewed as a cost effective alternative for maintaining sterility in the field. Rather than using their (possibly not completely clean gloved) hands for wiping, the clinical staff can utilize the packaging and possible polygonal shape for gripping.

[0076] In one or more embodiments, the individual disinfection units are polygonal in shape, which allows for a better grip, almost acting as a non-slip configuration. The different sides of the polygonal shape allow people with different hand sizes to grip in the most ergonomic way. The sides of the polygonal shape also allow for more force to be transmitted in wiping.

[0077] Implementation

[0078] Various embodiments are listed below. It should be understood that the embodiments listed below can be combined with all aspects of the scope of the present invention and other embodiments.

[0079] Embodiment (a). A disinfection strip comprising:

[0080] a body having a first end and a second end defining a length of the body, and a first inner edge and a second inner edge, the first end and the first inner edge forming a first tab, and the second end and the second inner edge forming a second tab;

[0081] a plurality of individual blister packages connected in series and disposed between the first and second inner edges of the body, each individual blister package having a body having a first end and a second end defining a length of the body, each individual blister package connected to an adjacent blister package by a perforated portion, and the first end of the individual blister package connected to the first inner edge of the first tab, each individual blister package also having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a pocket extending from the top surface of the individual blister package, the pocket having an open end in the bottom surface, thereby defining a cavity; and,

[0082] An absorbent medium is disposed within the cavity and sealed by the high barrier web foil, the absorbent medium being impregnated with a sterilizing fluid or gel.

[0083] Embodiment (b). The disinfection strip of embodiment (a), wherein the first tab and the second tab comprise holes for hanging the disinfection strip on a hook.

[0084] Embodiment (c). The disinfection strip according to embodiment (b), wherein the holes have a circular, oval, square, triangular or rectangular shape.

[0085] Embodiment (d) A disinfection strip according to embodiment (a) wherein the body of the disinfection strip further comprises a side section connecting the first tab and the second tab.

[0086] Embodiment (e). A sterilization strip according to embodiment (d), wherein the side sections are connected to side edges of the plurality of individual blister packs.

[0087] Embodiment (f). A disinfection strip according to embodiment (a) wherein the body of the disinfection strip comprises a side section connecting the first tab to the second tab.

[0088] Embodiment (g). A sterilization strip according to embodiment (a), wherein the second end of the blister pack is connected to the second inside edge of the second tab.

[0089] Embodiment (h). A sterilisation strip according to embodiment (a), wherein the high barrier web foil comprises weak points or liquid tight perforations for piercing the high barrier web foil upon application of an outer force to one or more wall surfaces of the bag.

[0090] Embodiment (i). A sterilisation strip according to embodiment (a), wherein one or more edges of the high barrier web foil have pull tabs for peeling the high barrier web foil away from the bottom surface of the individual blister packs.

[0091] Embodiment (j). The sterilization strip of embodiment (a), wherein the high barrier web foil has a thickness of less than 0.012 inches.

[0092] Embodiment (k). A sterilisation strip according to embodiment (a), wherein the high barrier web foil is thermoformed onto the bottom surface of the individual blister packs.

[0093] Embodiment (l). The disinfection strip according to embodiment (a), wherein the absorbent medium is a sponge.

[0094] Embodiment (m). The disinfection strip according to embodiment (a), wherein the absorbent medium is a disinfection wipe.

[0095] Embodiment (n). A sterilization device comprising a plurality of individual blister packages removably connected to each other by perforations, the individual blister packages having a housing comprising a bottom web formed of a high barrier packaging film having a thickness of less than 0.012 inches, wherein the high barrier packaging film is thermoformed into a non-circular profile, has no thread features on the interior and has no external ribs.

[0096] Embodiment (o). The disinfection device according to embodiment (n), wherein the housing has a non-circular contour shape.

[0097] Embodiment (p). The disinfection device according to embodiment (o), wherein the housing has a polygonal shape with rounded corners.

[0098] Embodiment (q). A disinfection strip comprising:

[0099] two or more bodies, the bodies having a first end and a second end defining a length of the body, and a first inner edge and a second inner edge, the first end and the first inner edge forming a first tab, and the second end and the second inner edge forming a second tab;

[0100] a plurality of individual blister packages connected in series and disposed between the first and second inner edges of the body, each individual blister package having a body having a first end and a second end defining a length of the body, each individual blister package connected to an adjacent blister package by a perforated portion, and the first end of the individual blister package connected to the first inner edge of the first tab, each individual blister package also having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a pocket extending from the top surface of the individual blister package, the pocket having an open end in the bottom surface, thereby defining a cavity; and,

[0101] an absorbent medium disposed within the cavity and sealed by the high barrier web foil, the absorbent medium being impregnated with a sterilizing fluid or gel,

[0102] Two or more bodies are connected in a parallel orientation by a perforated connection.

[0103] Embodiment (r) The disinfection strip of embodiment (q), wherein the first tab and the second tab comprise holes for hanging the disinfection strip on a hook.

[0104] Embodiment (s). The disinfection strip according to embodiment (r), wherein the holes have a circular, oval, square, triangular or rectangular shape.

[0105] Embodiment (t). The disinfection strip of embodiment (q), wherein the body of the disinfection strip further comprises a side section connecting the first tab and the second tab.

[0106] Embodiment (u). The sterilization strip according to embodiment (t), wherein the side sections are connected to side edges of the plurality of individual blister packs.

[0107] Embodiment (v). The disinfection strip of embodiment (q) wherein the body of the disinfection strip comprises a side section connecting the first tab to the second tab.

[0108] Embodiment (w). The sterilization strip according to embodiment (q), wherein the second end of the blister pack is connected to the second inside edge of the second tab.

[0109] Embodiment (x). The sterilization strip according to embodiment (q), wherein the high barrier web foil comprises a weak point or a liquid-tight perforation for piercing the high barrier web foil upon application of an outer force to one or more wall surfaces of the bag.

[0110] Embodiment (y). The sterilization strip according to embodiment (q), wherein one or more edges of the high barrier web foil have pull tabs for peeling the high barrier web foil away from the bottom surface of the individual blister packs.

[0111] Embodiment (z). The sterilization strip according to embodiment (q), wherein the high barrier web foil has a thickness of less than 0.012 inches.

[0112] Embodiment (aa). A sterilisation strip according to embodiment (q), wherein the high barrier web foil is thermoformed onto the bottom surface of the individual blister packs.

[0113] Embodiment (bb). The disinfection strip according to embodiment (q), wherein the absorbent medium is a sponge.

[0114] Embodiment (cc). The disinfection strip according to embodiment (q), wherein the absorbent medium is a disinfection wipe.

[0115] Although the present disclosure has been shown and described with reference to certain exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and detail may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure. In addition, it will be readily understood by those skilled in the art that any feature or element of any exemplary implementation of the embodiments of the present disclosure described above and shown in the accompanying drawings may be implemented alone or in any combination without departing from the spirit and scope of the embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0116] In addition, the included drawings further describe non-limiting examples of implementations of certain exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure and facilitate the description of the technology associated therewith. As mentioned above, any specific or relative dimensions or measurements provided in the drawings are exemplary and are not intended to limit the scope or content of the present invention's design or method as understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention relates.

[0117] References throughout this specification to "one embodiment," "certain embodiments," "one or more embodiments," or "an embodiment" mean that a particular feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in conjunction with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, phrases such as "in one or more embodiments," "in certain embodiments," "in an embodiment," or "in an embodiment" appearing throughout this specification do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment of the present disclosure. Furthermore, particular features, structures, materials, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0118] Although the disclosure herein has been described with reference to specific embodiments, it should be understood that these embodiments are merely illustrative of the principles and applications of the present disclosure. It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations may be made to the methods and apparatus of the present disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the present disclosure is intended to include modifications and variations within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. A disinfection strip comprising: a body having a first end and a second end defining a length of the body, and a first inner edge and a second inner edge, the first end and the first inner edge forming a first tab, the second end and the second inner edge forming a second tab; a plurality of individual blister packages connected in series and disposed between the first inner edge and the second inner edge of the body, each individual blister package having a body having a first end and a second end defining a length of the body, each individual blister package connected to an adjacent blister package by a perforated portion, and the first end of the individual blister package connected to the first inner edge of the first tab, each individual blister package also having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a pocket extending from the top surface of the individual blister package, the pocket having an open end in the bottom surface, thereby defining a cavity; as well as, An absorbent medium is disposed within the cavity and sealed by the high barrier web foil, the absorbent medium being impregnated with a sterilizing fluid or gel.

2. The disinfection strip according to claim 1, wherein: The first tab and the second tab include holes for hanging the disinfection strip on a hook.

3. The disinfection strip according to claim 2, wherein: The holes have a circular, oval, square, triangular or rectangular shape.

4. The disinfection strip according to claim 1, wherein: The body of the disinfection strip also includes a side section connecting the first tab and the second tab.

5. The disinfection strip according to claim 4, wherein: The side sections are connected to side edges of a plurality of the individual blister packs.

6. The disinfection strip according to claim 1, wherein: The body of the disinfection strip includes a side section connecting the first tab to the second tab.

7. The disinfection strip according to claim 1, wherein: The second end of the blister pack is connected to the second inside edge of the second tab.

8. The disinfection strip of claim 1, wherein: The high barrier web foil comprises weak points or fluid tight perforations for puncturing the high barrier web foil upon application of an outer force to one or more wall surfaces of the bag.

9. The disinfection strip of claim 1, wherein: One or more edges of the high barrier web foil have pull tabs for peeling the high barrier web foil away from the bottom surface of the individual blister pack.

10. The disinfection strip of claim 1, wherein: The high barrier web foil has a thickness of less than 0.012 inches.

11. The disinfection strip of claim 1, wherein: The high barrier web foil is thermoformed onto the bottom surface of the individual blister packs.

12. The disinfection strip of claim 1, wherein: The absorbent medium is a sponge.

13. The disinfection strip of claim 1, wherein: The absorbent medium is a disinfecting wipe.

14. A sterilization device comprising a plurality of individual blister packages removably connected to one another by perforations, the individual blister packages having a shell comprising a bottom web formed from a high barrier packaging film having a thickness of less than 0.012 inches, wherein the high barrier packaging film is thermoformed into a non-circular profile, has no thread features on the interior and has no external ribs.

15. The disinfection device according to claim 14, wherein: The housing has a non-circular profile shape.

16. The disinfection device according to claim 15, wherein: The housing has a polygonal shape with rounded corners.

17. A disinfection strip comprising: two or more bodies having first and second ends defining a length of the bodies, and first and second inner edges, the first end and first inner edge forming a first tab, the second end and second inner edge forming a second tab; a plurality of individual blister packages connected in series and disposed between the first inner edge and the second inner edge of the body, each individual blister package having a body having a first end and a second end defining a length of the body, each individual blister package connected to an adjacent blister package by a perforated portion, and the first end of the individual blister package connected to the first inner edge of the first tab, each individual blister package also having a top surface and a bottom surface, and a pocket extending from the top surface of the individual blister package, the pocket having an open end in the bottom surface, thereby defining a cavity; as well as, an absorbent medium disposed within the cavity and sealed by the high barrier web foil, the absorbent medium being impregnated with a sterilizing fluid or gel, The two or more bodies are connected in a parallel orientation by a perforated connection.

18. A disinfection strip according to claim 17, wherein: The first and second tabs include holes for hanging the disinfection strip from a hook.

19. A disinfection strip according to claim 18, wherein: The holes have a circular, oval, square, triangular or rectangular shape.

20. The disinfection strip of claim 17, wherein: The body of the disinfection strip also includes a side section connecting the first tab and the second tab.

21. A disinfection strip according to claim 20, wherein: The side sections are connected to side edges of a plurality of the individual blister packs.

22. The disinfection strip of claim 17, wherein: The body of the disinfection strip includes a side section connecting the first tab to the second tab.

23. The disinfection strip of claim 17, wherein: The second end of the blister pack is connected to the second inside edge of the second tab.

24. The disinfection strip of claim 17, wherein: The high barrier web foil comprises weak points or fluid tight perforations for puncturing the high barrier web foil upon application of an outer force to one or more wall surfaces of the bag.

25. The disinfection strip of claim 17, wherein: One or more edges of the high barrier web foil have pull tabs for peeling the high barrier web foil away from the bottom surface of the individual blister pack.

26. The disinfection strip of claim 17, wherein: The high barrier web foil has a thickness of less than 0.012 inches.

27. The disinfection strip of claim 17, wherein: The high barrier web foil is thermoformed onto the bottom surface of the individual blister packs.

28. The disinfection strip of claim 17, wherein: The absorbent medium is a sponge.

29. The disinfection strip of claim 17, wherein: The absorbent medium is a disinfecting wipe.

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