Collection kit and collection method

Abstract

To provide a sampling kit and a sampling method in which excess or deficiency is hard to occur in an amount of a liquid sample sampled into a culture bottle, and risk of mistakenly mixing air by a user is suppressed.SOLUTION: A sampling kit 10 comprises: a connecting tube 12 to which a medical-use bag housing a liquid sample can be connected; a syringe 14 which has a first chamber 48 housing a predetermined amount of the liquid sample and a second chamber 52 housing a predetermined amount of the liquid sample; a sampling holder 16 to which a culture bottle can be connected; and a flow channel connection member 18 which fluidly communicates the connecting tube 12, the syringe 14 and the sampling holder 16, where the first chamber 48 and the second chamber 52 are arranged in parallel in an axial direction of the syringe 14, and the first chamber 48 and the second chamber 52 communicate in series.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a collection kit and collection method for collecting blood products for testing. [Background technology]

[0002] To ensure the safety of blood products, a small amount of liquid sample is taken and cultured before shipping. For culture testing, a specified amount of liquid sample (blood product) is taken in a culture bottle, which is then stored for a specified period at a temperature of 30-40°C, which is suitable for bacterial growth, and the growth of bacteria in the culture bottle is then confirmed.

[0003] A dedicated collection kit is used to collect a liquid sample into a culture bottle. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a collection kit for collecting a liquid sample from a blood bag. This collection kit collects a predetermined amount of liquid sample in a sample collection tube. Next, the liquid sample is transferred to the culture bottle while checking the transferred amount using the markings on the sample collection tube. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 8,777,921 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] With conventional collection kits, the liquid level in the collection bottle changes rapidly due to suction caused by the negative pressure of the culture bottle. This makes it difficult for inexperienced operators to measure and collect a consistent amount of liquid sample into the culture bottle, which can result in over or under-volume collection of the liquid sample. Furthermore, with conventional collection kits, there is a risk that users may accidentally mix air into the liquid sample when transferring it to the anaerobic culture bottle.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to solve the above-mentioned problems. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One aspect of the following disclosure is a collection kit comprising: a connecting tube to which a medical bag containing a liquid sample can be connected; a syringe having a first chamber that contains a predetermined amount of the liquid sample and a second chamber that contains the predetermined amount of the liquid sample; a sampling holder to which a culture bottle can be connected; and a flow path connecting member that fluidly connects the connecting tube, the syringe, and the sampling holder, wherein the first chamber and the second chamber are arranged side by side in the axial direction of the syringe, and the first chamber and the second chamber are connected in series.

[0008] Another aspect is a collection method using the collection kit of the above aspect, comprising: a bag connecting step of connecting the medical bag to the connecting tube; a first storing step of storing the predetermined amount of the liquid sample in the first chamber of the syringe; a second storing step of storing the predetermined amount of the liquid sample in the second chamber of the syringe after the first storing step; a bag separating step of disconnecting the medical bag from the connecting tube; a first collection step of connecting an aerobic culture bottle to the sampling holder and collecting the liquid sample from either the first chamber or the second chamber in the aerobic culture bottle; and a second collection step of connecting an anaerobic culture bottle to the sampling holder and collecting the liquid sample from the other of the first chamber or the second chamber in the anaerobic culture bottle. [Effects of the Invention]

[0009] The collection kit and collection method of the above aspects allow even inexperienced operators to measure and collect an accurate amount of liquid sample into a culture bottle. Furthermore, the collection kit and collection method of the above aspects can reduce the risk of a user accidentally mixing air into the liquid sample when transferring it to the anaerobic culture bottle. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of a collection kit according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of the bag connecting step of the collection method using the collection kit of FIG. [Figure 3] 3A is an explanatory diagram of the initial state of the syringe in FIG. 1, FIG. 3B is an explanatory diagram of the first containing step, and FIG. 3C is an explanatory diagram of the second containing step. [Figure 4] FIG. 4A is an explanatory diagram of the bag separating step and the first collection step, and FIG. 4B is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the syringe in FIG. 1 in the first collection step. [Figure 5] FIG. 5A is an explanatory diagram of the second collection step, and FIG. 5B is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the syringe of FIG. 1 in the second collection step. [Figure 6] FIG. 6A is a diagram illustrating the configuration of a syringe according to a second embodiment, and FIG. 6B is a diagram illustrating the operation of the syringe of FIG. 6A in a first containing step. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is an explanatory view of the operation of the second storing step of the syringe of FIG. 6A. [Figure 8] 8A is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the syringe in FIG. 6A in the first collection step, and FIG. 8B is an explanatory diagram of the syringe in FIG. 6A in the completed state of the first collection step. [Figure 9] 9A is an explanatory diagram of the operation of the syringe in FIG. 6A in the second collection step, and FIG. 9B is an explanatory diagram of the syringe in FIG. 6A in the completed state of the second collection step. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing a modified example of the syringe of FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] (First embodiment) The collection kit 10 according to this embodiment shown in FIG. 1 is used, for example, in culture tests to confirm the safety of blood products at a business facility such as a blood center that produces blood products. The culture tests involve culturing anaerobic bacteria and aerobic bacteria. Therefore, culture bottles 90 (see FIGS. 4A and 5A) are used for aerobic culture and anaerobic culture, respectively. The collection kit 10 is used to collect a liquid sample, such as a platelet product, and to collect a predetermined amount (e.g., 8 ml or 10 ml) of the liquid sample into an aerobic culture bottle 92 (FIG. 4A) and an anaerobic culture bottle 94 (FIG. 5A).

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1, collection kit 10 includes connecting tube 12, syringe 14, sampling holder 16, and flow path connecting member 18. Connecting tube 12 is a translucent medical tube made of a thermoplastic resin such as polyvinyl chloride resin. By using a sterile joining device, connecting tube 12 can be connected to other medical tubes without exposing the interior to the outside air. Furthermore, by using a tube sealer, connecting tube 12 can be separated from other medical tubes and the ends can be sealed without exposing the interior to the outside air.

[0013] The connecting tube 12 has a first end 12a on the upstream side and a second end 12b on the downstream side. The first end 12a is welded and sealed in the initial state (the state when the product is first provided). The second end 12b is connected to a flow path connecting member 18.

[0014] The syringe 14 includes an adjustment mechanism 15, an outer cylinder 20, an inner cylinder 22, a gasket 24, and a plunger 26. The gasket 24 and plunger 26 are assembled together to form an integrated plunger assembly 28. The outer cylinder 20 includes a cylindrical outer barrel 30 and a first discharge portion 32 formed at the tip of the outer barrel 30. The outer barrel 30 extends axially with a constant diameter and defines a cylindrical first housing chamber 34. The base end of the first housing chamber 34 opens at the base end of the outer barrel 30, and the tip is covered by the first discharge portion 32. The inner circumferential surface 30a of the outer barrel 30 has a smooth cylindrical surface. The first discharge portion 32 has an outer nozzle 36 in its center that protrudes toward the axial tip. The outer nozzle 36 is in communication with the first housing chamber 34. The outer nozzle 36 is connected to the flow path connecting member 18.

[0015] The inner cylinder 22 is accommodated in the first accommodation chamber 34 of the outer cylinder 20. The inner cylinder 22 includes a cylindrical inner barrel 38 and a second discharge port 40 formed at the tip of the inner barrel 38. The inner barrel 38 has a cylindrical shape with a constant outer and inner diameter. Because the outer diameter of the inner barrel 38 is smaller than the inner diameter of the outer cylinder 20, the inner barrel 38 can slide axially inside the outer barrel 30 of the outer cylinder 20. A seal member 42 is attached to the outer periphery of the tip of the inner barrel 38. The seal member 42 moves integrally with the inner barrel 38. The seal member 42 slides against the inner circumferential surface 30a of the outer barrel 30 while sealing the gap between the inner barrel 38 and the outer barrel 30 liquid-tight and air-tight. The seal member 42 is, for example, an O-ring.

[0016] As shown in FIG. 10 , the syringe 14 may further include a sealing member 49 connecting the base end of the inner tube 22 and the plunger 26. The sealing member 49 is a cylindrical member formed of a flexible resin sheet or the like. One end of the sealing member 49 is connected to the base end of the inner tube 22, and the other end is connected to the base end of the plunger 26. The sealing member 49 is bellows-shaped. The sealing member 49 deforms from a folded bellows shape to an extended cylindrical shape depending on the position of the plunger 26. That is, the sealing member 49 follows the displacement of the plunger 26 as the bellows expand. The sealing member 49 seals the gap between the plunger 26 and the inner tube 22 from the outside air, thereby maintaining the sterility of the second chamber 52. The sealing member 49 prevents bacterial adhesion to the inner wall of the inner tube 22, thereby preventing false positives in tests in which a blood product is contaminated even though it is sterile.

[0017] As shown in FIG. 1 , the inner barrel 38 has a cylindrical second housing chamber 44 inside. The base end of the second housing chamber 44 opens at the base end of the inner barrel 38, and the tip side is covered by the second discharge portion 40. The second housing chamber 44 has a smooth cylindrical surface and extends axially with a constant inner diameter. The second discharge portion 40 has a second nozzle 46. The second housing chamber 44 communicates with the first housing chamber 34 through the second nozzle 46.

[0018] The gasket 24 is accommodated in the second accommodation chamber 44 of the inner cylinder 22. The gasket 24 is able to slide in the axial direction while abutting the inner peripheral surface 38a of the inner barrel 38 in a liquid-tight and airtight manner. The base end of the gasket 24 is connected to the plunger 26. The plunger 26 transmits an operating force to the gasket 24. The plunger 26 pulls the gasket 24 toward the base end or pushes the gasket 24 toward the tip end.

[0019] The outer cylinder 20 and inner cylinder 22 are made of, for example, transparent resin or glass. The gasket 24 is made of an elastic material such as rubber or elastomer. The plunger 26 is made of, for example, resin or glass.

[0020] In the syringe 14 described above, the first chamber 48 is formed in the first storage chamber 34 on the tip side of the inner cylinder 22. The first chamber 48 is partitioned on the base end side by the inner cylinder 22 and on the tip side by the first discharge portion 32. The volume of the first chamber 48 changes depending on the position of the inner cylinder 22. A first marked line indicating the volume of the first chamber 48 depending on the position of the inner cylinder 22 is formed on the outer cylinder 20. A locking mechanism 50 that restricts relative movement of the inner cylinder 22 with respect to the outer cylinder 20 is provided on the base end of the outer cylinder 20. The locking mechanism 50 keeps the volume of the first chamber 48 constant by preventing movement of the inner cylinder 22 due to the input of an external force.

[0021] In the syringe 14, the second chamber 52 is formed in the second storage chamber 44 of the inner tube 22 on the tip side of the gasket 24. The base end side of the second chamber 52 is partitioned by the gasket 24, and the tip side is partitioned by the second discharge portion 40. The volume of the second chamber 52 changes depending on the position of the gasket 24. A second marked line indicating the volume of the second chamber 52 depending on the position of the gasket 24 is formed on the inner tube 22.

[0022] In the syringe 14, the adjustment mechanism 15 is composed of the inner cylinder 22 and the plunger assembly 28, which can press the first chamber 48 and the second chamber 52 independently.

[0023] The first chamber 48 and the second chamber 52 are arranged side by side in the axial direction of the syringe 14. The second chamber 52 communicates with the first chamber 48 via the second nozzle 46 of the inner cylinder 22. The second chamber 52 is connected in series with the first chamber 48 relative to the outer nozzle 36 of the syringe 14.

[0024] In the initial state (state when the product is first provided), the syringe 14 has the inner cylinder 22 abutting against the first discharge portion 32 of the outer cylinder 20, and the gasket 24 abutting against the second discharge portion 40 of the inner cylinder 22. In other words, the volumes of the first chamber 48 and the second chamber 52 are 0 ml. The syringe 14 has dimensions that allow the first chamber 48 and the second chamber 52 to each contain a predetermined amount (e.g., 8 ml or 10 ml) of liquid sample.

[0025] The sampling holder 16 has a holder part 16a that accommodates the neck of a culture bottle 90 (see FIGS. 4A and 5A), a needle tube 16b that can penetrate the stopper of the culture bottle 90, and a lid 16c. The culture bottle 90 is connected to the sampling holder 16 by inserting the neck of the culture bottle 90 into the holder part 16a. The needle tube 16b penetrates the stopper of the culture bottle 90 and communicates with the interior of the culture bottle 90. The lid 16c is attached to the holder part 16a via a hinge. In the initial state, the lid 16c covers the opening of the holder part 16a, thereby sealing the holder part 16a. The lid 16c prevents bacteria from adhering to the needle tube 16b.

[0026] The flow path connecting member 18 selectively connects the connecting tube 12, the syringe 14, and the sampling holder 16. The flow path connecting member 18 is, for example, a three-way stopcock. In the first position, the flow path connecting member 18 connects the connecting tube 12 and the syringe 14 and blocks communication with the sampling holder 16. In the second position, the flow path connecting member 18 connects the syringe 14 and the sampling holder 16.

[0027] The collection kit 10 of this embodiment is configured as described above. This collection kit 10 is used in the following collection method.

[0028] 2, the collection method of this embodiment first proceeds to a bag connecting step. This step involves connecting a medical bag 100 (platelet bag) containing a platelet preparation to a connecting tube 12 of a collection kit 10. This step includes an operation of joining a tube 102 extending from the medical bag 100 to the connecting tube 12 using a sterile joining device.

[0029] Next, as shown in FIG. 3A, the collection method proceeds to a first storing step. The first storing step is a step of storing a predetermined amount of liquid sample (e.g., a platelet preparation) in the first chamber 48. Prior to the first storing step, an operation is performed in which the three-way stopcock of the flow path connecting member 18 is set to the first position to communicate between the connecting tube 12 and the syringe 14. Next, this step proceeds to an operation of retracting the inner cylinder 22 to the base end. By this operation, a predetermined amount (e.g., 8 ml or 10 ml) of liquid sample is stored in the first chamber 48, as shown in FIG. 3B.

[0030] The first containing step may include an air bubble removal operation. The air bubble removal operation is performed by moving the inner tube 22 back and forth in the axial direction and / or by compressing the connecting tube 12 (tube 102). To facilitate the removal of air bubbles, it is preferable to position the medical bag 100 above the collection kit 10, as shown in FIG. 2.

[0031] After the first storage step is completed, the locking mechanism 50 fixes the inner tube 22 to the outer tube 20. Note that in the collection method of this embodiment, fixing the inner tube 22 with the locking mechanism 50 is not essential, and the user may simply hold the inner tube 22 with one hand to prevent it from moving.

[0032] 3C, the collection method then proceeds to a second containing step. The second containing step is a step of containing a predetermined amount of liquid sample (e.g., a platelet product) in the second chamber 52. This step includes an operation of pulling the plunger 26 toward the proximal end to retract the gasket 24 toward the proximal end. As a result of this operation, a predetermined amount (e.g., 8 ml or 10 ml) of liquid sample is contained in the second chamber 52, as shown in the figure.

[0033] In the second accommodating step, air bubbles remaining in the first chamber 48 may be caught up and flow into the second chamber 52. Therefore, the second accommodating step may include an air bubble removal operation to remove air bubbles from the second chamber 52. This operation may include an operation of moving the gasket 24 back and forth in the axial direction.

[0034] Next, the collection method proceeds to the bag separation step. The bag separation step includes an operation of melting and cutting the connecting tube 12 using a tube sealer (not shown). In the bag separation step, the medical bag 100 is separated from the connecting tube 12, as illustrated in FIG. 4A. The separated medical bag 100 is stored at the blood center until the culture test is completed. The medical bag 100, whose safety as a blood product has been confirmed, is available for use.

[0035] Next, as shown in FIG. 4A, the collection method proceeds to the first collection step. The first collection step is a step of collecting a predetermined amount of liquid sample into the first culture bottle 90. In the first collection step, the liquid sample is collected into the aerobic culture bottle 92, one of the culture bottles 90, which is to be used for aerobic culture. Prior to the first collection step, an operation is performed to move the three-way stopcock of the flow path connecting member 18 to the second position. In addition, the locking mechanism 50 is operated to release the fixation between the inner cylinder 22 and the outer cylinder 20.

[0036] 4B, an operation is performed to connect the aerobic culture bottle 92 to the sampling holder 16. This operation connects the aerobic culture bottle 92 to the syringe 14. Next, an operation is performed to press the inner cylinder 22 toward the tip. This operation collects the liquid sample in the first chamber 48 into the aerobic culture bottle 92. The first collection step is completed when the inner cylinder 22 abuts against the first discharge portion 32 of the outer cylinder 20.

[0037] In the first collection step, a predetermined amount (8 ml or 10 ml) of liquid sample is collected in the aerobic culture bottle 92. In addition, in the first collection step, air bubbles remaining in the first chamber 48 and the sampling holder 16 are sucked into the aerobic culture bottle 92. Therefore, the first collection step also serves as a priming step in which the air inside is replaced with the liquid sample. The first collection step prevents air from being mixed into the anaerobic culture bottle 94 in the subsequent second collection step.

[0038] Next, as shown in FIG. 5A, after the first collection step is completed, the aerobic culture bottle 92 is removed from the sampling holder 16. The collection method then proceeds to the second collection step. The second collection step is a step of collecting a liquid sample in a second culture bottle 90. In the collection method of this embodiment, the second culture bottle 90 is an anaerobic culture bottle 94. The second collection step includes an operation of connecting the anaerobic culture bottle 94 to the sampling holder 16.

[0039] 5B, the second collection step then proceeds to the operation of pressing the plunger 26 toward the tip. This operation transfers the liquid sample contained in the second chamber 52 to the anaerobic culture bottle 94. When the gasket 24 comes into contact with the second discharge portion 40 of the inner cylinder 22 as a result of pressing the plunger 26, the second collection step is completed. A predetermined amount (8 ml or 10 ml) of the liquid sample is collected in the anaerobic culture bottle 94 by the second collection step.

[0040] Thereafter, the anaerobic culture bottle 94 is removed from the sampling holder 16, completing the collection method using the collection kit 10 of this embodiment. The aerobic culture bottle 92 and the anaerobic culture bottle 94 containing the liquid sample are subjected to a culture test.

[0041] As described above, the collection kit 10 and collection method of this embodiment enable even inexperienced users to collect an accurate amount of liquid sample by operating the syringe 14. Furthermore, the syringe 14 has the first chamber 48 separated by the inner cylinder 22 and the second chamber 52 separated by the gasket 24, preventing air from entering the culture bottle 90. Therefore, the collection kit 10 and collection method allow almost the entire amount of liquid sample collected in the syringe 14 to be used for culture testing, thereby reducing waste of valuable blood products (e.g., platelet products).

[0042] (Second embodiment) Syringe 14A of this embodiment shown in Fig. 6A can be used in place of syringe 14 of collection kit 10 (first embodiment) shown in Fig. 1. In the description of this embodiment, illustrations and descriptions of components other than syringe 14A will be omitted.

[0043] Syringe 14A includes adjustment mechanism 15A, barrel body 54, intermediate gasket 56, proximal end gasket 58, plunger 60, and filter 62. Barrel body 54 is formed from a transparent resin material. Barrel body 54 includes a cylindrical barrel 64, a discharge portion 66, and a bypass flow path 68. Barrel 64 is formed cylindrically and includes a storage chamber 70 therein. The storage chamber 70 has a circular cross section perpendicular to the axial direction and extends axially. The base end of storage chamber 70 opens at the base end of barrel 64. Discharge portion 66 is located at the tip of barrel 64. Discharge portion 66 includes a nozzle 72 that connects storage chamber 70 to the outside. Nozzle 72 serves as a connection portion to flow path connecting member 18 of collection kit 10 shown in FIG. 1 .

[0044] As shown in FIG. 6A , the bypass flow passage 68 is disposed at a predetermined position in the axial direction of the barrel 64. The bypass flow passage 68 is a flow passage that bulges outward in the radial direction relative to the housing chamber 70. The bypass flow passage 68 is formed only in a portion of the circumferential direction of the barrel 64 and extends linearly in the axial direction. Therefore, even if the intermediate gasket 56 moves to a position where it overlaps with the bypass flow passage 68, the inner circumferential surface 54 a around the bypass flow passage 68 abuts against the intermediate gasket 56. In other words, even when the bypass flow passage 68 forms a flow passage that bypasses the intermediate gasket 56, the intermediate gasket 56 is subjected to frictional resistance between the inner circumferential surface 54 a.

[0045] The bypass flow passage 68 has a depth (radial dimension) that is not blocked by the intermediate gasket 56. The cross-sectional shape of the bypass flow passage 68 can be set appropriately depending on the elasticity of the intermediate gasket 56. The axial length L2 of the bypass flow passage 68 is longer than the axial length L1 of the intermediate gasket 56. The barrel 64 may have multiple bypass flow passages 68 spaced apart in the circumferential direction.

[0046] An intermediate gasket 56 and a base end gasket 58 are disposed in the housing chamber 70 of the barrel body 54 in this order from the tip side. The intermediate gasket 56 and the base end gasket 58 are formed from an elastic material such as rubber or various elastomers, and come into liquid-tight and airtight contact with the inner circumferential surface 54a of the barrel body 54 and slide thereon. The intermediate gasket 56 and the base end gasket 58 are separate members and can be separated from each other. In the initial state, the intermediate gasket 56 and the base end gasket 58 come into contact with each other without forming a gap.

[0047] The intermediate gasket 56 axially separates a first chamber 74 from a second chamber 76. The first chamber 74 is formed between the intermediate gasket 56 and the discharge portion 66, and the second chamber 76 is formed between the intermediate gasket 56 and the base end gasket 58. In the initial state, the volumes of the first chamber 74 and the second chamber 76 are 0 ml.

[0048] The base end gasket 58 is located on the base end side of the second chamber 76. The axial length L3 of the base end gasket 58 is longer than the axial length L2 of the bypass flow path 68. A plunger 60 is attached to the base end of the base end gasket 58. The plunger 60 transmits the operating force of the user to the base end gasket 58. Operation via the plunger 60 displaces the base end gasket 58 toward the tip or base end.

[0049] The filter 62 is attached to a predetermined position on the plunger 60 and moves integrally with the plunger 60. In an initial state, the filter 62 is placed in the storage chamber 70 near the base end of the barrel body 54. The filter 62 is made of a porous material that is breathable. The filter 62 prevents the entry of foreign matter such as bacteria and viruses, and keeps the inside of the storage chamber 70 sterile.

[0050] In the above-mentioned syringe 14A, the adjustment mechanism 15A is composed of a bypass flow path 68 that keeps the volume of the first chamber 74 constant while the liquid sample is being discharged from the second chamber 76, and an intermediate gasket 56 that can be stopped at the bypass flow path 68.

[0051] The syringe 14A of this embodiment is configured as described above. The syringe 14A operates as follows in the first and second containing steps and the first and second collecting steps.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 6B , the first containing step is initiated by retracting the plunger 60 toward the base end. The base end gasket 58 is displaced toward the base end together with the plunger 60. As the base end gasket 58 is displaced, a negative pressure is generated between it and the intermediate gasket 56. The intermediate gasket 56 is drawn in by the negative pressure between it and the base end gasket 58, and is displaced toward the base end together with the base end gasket 58. As the intermediate gasket 56 is displaced, the volume of the first chamber 74 increases, and the liquid sample is contained in the first chamber 74.

[0053] The axial length L3 of the base end gasket 58 is longer than the axial length L2 of the bypass flow passage 68. Therefore, the base end gasket 58 can overcome the bypass flow passage 68 without allowing air to flow into the second chamber 76.

[0054] 7, when the distal and proximal ends of the intermediate gasket 56 enter the interior of the bypass flow path 68, the first chamber 74 and the second chamber 76 communicate with each other through the bypass flow path 68. Once the first chamber 74 and the second chamber 76 communicate with each other, negative pressure is no longer applied between the intermediate gasket 56 and the proximal gasket 58, and the intermediate gasket 56 stops moving. Through these steps, collection of a predetermined amount of liquid sample into the first chamber 74 is completed.

[0055] When the plunger 60 is further retracted in the proximal direction, the liquid sample flows into the second chamber 76 through the bypass channel 68. When the plunger 60 is retracted to a predetermined position, a predetermined amount of liquid sample is also contained in the second chamber 76, completing the second containing step.

[0056] Thereafter, an operation is performed to remove the air bubbles from the second chamber 76. The air bubbles are removed from the second chamber 76 by standing the syringe 14A upright with the nozzle 72 facing upward. The air bubbles are collected near the bypass flow path 68, and the plunger 60 is moved back and forth between the distal end and the proximal end, thereby transferring the air bubbles from the second chamber 76 to the first chamber 74.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 8A, the first collection step is performed by pressing the plunger 60 toward the tip. Pressing the plunger 60 moves the base end gasket 58 toward the tip. The liquid sample in the second chamber 76 then flows through the bypass flow path 68 into the first chamber 74. As a result, the liquid sample in the syringe 14A is collected in the first aerobic culture bottle 92 (see FIG. 4A). As shown in FIG. 8B, the first collection step is performed until the base end gasket 58 contacts the intermediate gasket 56. Once the base end gasket 58 contacts the intermediate gasket 56, the aerobic culture bottle 92 is removed from the sampling holder 16 (see FIG. 5A), and the anaerobic culture bottle 94 is connected to the sampling holder 16 (see FIG. 5B), thereby starting the second collection step.

[0058] 9A, the second collection step is performed by moving the intermediate gasket 56 toward the distal end using the proximal gasket 58 and the plunger 60. As the intermediate gasket 56 is pushed toward the distal end, the liquid sample in the first chamber 74 flows out of the syringe 14A. The liquid sample that flows out of the syringe 14A is collected in the anaerobic culture bottle 94.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 9B, when the intermediate gasket 56 comes into contact with the discharge portion 66 of the syringe 14A, the second collection step is completed.

[0060] As described above, the syringe 14A of this embodiment also provides the same effects as those obtained when the syringe 14 is used.

[0061] The above embodiment can be summarized as follows.

[0062] One embodiment is a collection kit 10 comprising a connecting tube 12 to which a medical bag 100 containing a liquid sample can be connected, a syringe 14, 14A having a first chamber 48, 74 for containing a predetermined amount of the liquid sample and a second chamber 52, 76 for containing the predetermined amount of the liquid sample, a sampling holder 16 to which a culture bottle 90 can be connected, and a flow path connecting member 18 that fluidly connects the connecting tube, the syringe, and the sampling holder, wherein the first chamber and the second chamber are arranged side by side in the axial direction of the syringe, and the first chamber and the second chamber are connected in series.

[0063] The collection kit described above allows even an inexperienced user to collect liquid samples into aerobic and anaerobic culture bottles in amounts corresponding to the respective volumes of the first and second chambers. This allows the collection kit to reduce variations in the collected liquid sample volume and prevent the need to collect liquid samples again due to insufficient volume. Furthermore, the collection kit separates the liquid samples in the first and second chambers of the syringe from air, preventing air from entering the culture bottle. Furthermore, the collection kit allows almost the entire volume of liquid sample collected in the syringe to be used for culture testing, reducing waste of valuable blood products (e.g., platelet products).

[0064] The collection kit has an adjustment mechanism 15, 15A that maintains the volume of the first chamber and the second chamber constant while the liquid sample from either the first chamber or the second chamber is being collected into the culture bottle.

[0065] In the collection kit, the syringe may include an outer cylinder 20, an inner cylinder 22 that slides against the inner circumferential surface of the outer cylinder while being in liquid-tight contact with the inner circumferential surface of the inner cylinder, and a gasket 24 that slides against the inner circumferential surface of the inner cylinder while being in liquid-tight contact with the inner circumferential surface of the inner cylinder. The first chamber may be formed between the inner cylinder and the interior of the outer cylinder, and the second chamber may be formed between the gasket and the interior of the inner cylinder. This syringe can collect a liquid sample from the first chamber into a culture bottle by moving the inner cylinder relative to the outer cylinder. Furthermore, the syringe can collect a liquid sample from the second chamber into a separate culture bottle by displacing the gasket. As a result, the collection kit facilitates collection of a predetermined amount of liquid sample.

[0066] In the collection kit described above, the first chamber and the second chamber may be in communication with each other via a second nozzle 46 of the inner cylinder. With this collection kit, air bubbles in the second chamber can be easily removed via the nozzle.

[0067] In the collection kit, the inner cylinder may have a sealing member 42 on its outer periphery that seals the gap between the inner cylinder and the outer cylinder. This collection kit can prevent leakage of the liquid sample from the first chamber.

[0068] The collection kit may include a locking mechanism 50 that prevents the inner cylinder from being displaced relative to the outer cylinder. By including the locking mechanism, the collection kit can suppress fluctuations in the volume of the first chamber due to displacement of the inner cylinder, thereby suppressing variations in the amount of collected liquid sample.

[0069] The collection kit may have a first marking on the outer cylinder indicating the volume of the first chamber and a second marking on the inner cylinder indicating the volume of the second chamber, allowing an accurate amount of liquid sample to be easily collected using the marks.

[0070] In the collection kit described above, the syringe includes a cylindrical barrel body 54 having an axially extending storage chamber 70, a bypass flow path 68 formed at a predetermined position in the barrel body and bulging radially outward from the storage chamber of the barrel body, an intermediate gasket 56 disposed in the storage chamber and sliding along the inner circumferential surface of the barrel body, a base end gasket 58 disposed proximal to the intermediate gasket and sliding along the inner circumferential surface of the barrel body, and a plunger 60 connected to the base end gasket, wherein the first chamber may be formed distal to the intermediate gasket and the second chamber may be formed between the intermediate gasket and the base end gasket. This collection kit can simplify the structure of the syringe.

[0071] In the collection kit, the axial length L2 of the bypass flow path may be longer than the axial length L1 of the intermediate gasket. This collection kit can realize a syringe with a simple configuration in which the first chamber and the second chamber are connected in series via the bypass flow path.

[0072] In the collection kit, the flow path connecting member may be a three-way stopcock that selectively connects the connection tube, the syringe, and the sampling holder. This collection kit allows easy switching of the flow path connection destinations and is excellent in operability.

[0073] Another aspect is a collection method using the collection kit, comprising: a bag connecting step of connecting the medical bag to the connecting tube; a first storing step of storing the predetermined amount of the liquid sample in the first chamber of the syringe; a second storing step of storing the predetermined amount of the liquid sample in the second chamber of the syringe after the first storing step; a bag separating step of disconnecting the medical bag from the connecting tube; a first collecting step of connecting an aerobic culture bottle to the sampling holder and collecting the liquid sample from either the first chamber or the second chamber in the aerobic culture bottle; and a second collecting step of connecting an anaerobic culture bottle to the sampling holder and collecting the liquid sample from the other of the first chamber or the second chamber in the anaerobic culture bottle.

[0074] The above-described collection method allows even an inexperienced user to collect liquid samples into the aerobic and anaerobic culture bottles in amounts corresponding to the respective volumes of the first and second chambers. Furthermore, the above-described collection method reduces the risk of air bubbles being introduced into the anaerobic culture bottles.

[0075] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various configurations can be adopted without departing from the gist of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0076] 10...Collection kit 12...Connecting tube 14, 14A... Syringe 15, 15A... Adjustment mechanism 16... Sampling holder 18... Flow path connecting member 20...Outer cylinder 22...Inner cylinder 24...Gasket 26...Plunger 42...Sealing member 48, 74...First chamber 50...lock mechanism 52, 76...second chamber

Claims

1. a connecting tube to which a medical bag containing a liquid sample can be connected; a syringe having a first chamber for containing a predetermined amount of the liquid sample and a second chamber for containing the predetermined amount of the liquid sample; a sampling holder to which a culture bottle can be connected; a three-way stopcock connected to the connecting tube, the syringe, and the sampling holder, and selectively connecting any two of the connecting tube, the syringe, and the sampling holder; an adjusting mechanism for maintaining a constant volume of the first chamber while the liquid sample in the second chamber is being collected into the culture bottle; The syringe comprises: An outer cylinder and an inner cylinder that slides while making liquid-tight contact with an inner circumferential surface of the outer cylinder; a gasket that slides while making liquid-tight contact with the inner circumferential surface of the inner cylinder, the first chamber is formed between the inner cylinder and the interior of the outer cylinder, the second chamber is formed between the gasket and the interior of the inner cylinder, The first chamber and the second chamber are arranged side by side in the axial direction of the syringe, the first chamber and the second chamber communicate in series via a nozzle of the inner cylinder; the adjustment mechanism includes a locking mechanism provided at a base end of the outer tube and configured to restrict relative movement of the inner tube with respect to the outer tube due to input of an external force to the inner tube. Collection kit.

2. 2. The collection kit according to claim 1, wherein the inner tube has a sealing member on its outer periphery that seals a gap between the inner tube and the outer tube. Collection kit.

3. 3. The collection kit of claim 1, further comprising: a first marking on the outer cylinder that indicates the volume of the first chamber; and a second marking on the inner cylinder that indicates the volume of the second chamber. Collection kit.

4. A connecting tube to which a medical bag containing a liquid sample can be connected; a syringe having a first chamber for containing a predetermined amount of the liquid sample and a second chamber for containing the predetermined amount of the liquid sample; a sampling holder to which a culture bottle can be connected; a three-way stopcock connected to the connecting tube, the syringe, and the sampling holder, and selectively connecting any two of the connecting tube, the syringe, and the sampling holder; a cylindrical barrel body having an axially extending storage chamber; a bypass flow path formed at a predetermined position of the barrel body and bulging radially outward from the accommodation chamber of the barrel body; an intermediate gasket disposed in the housing chamber and sliding along the inner circumferential surface of the barrel body; a base end gasket disposed on a base end side of the intermediate gasket and sliding along an inner circumferential surface of the barrel body; a plunger connected to the proximal gasket; the first chamber is formed on the distal end side of the intermediate gasket, and the second chamber is formed between the intermediate gasket and the proximal gasket, and the first chamber and the second chamber communicate with each other via the bypass flow path. Collection kit.

5. 5. The collection kit of claim 4, wherein the axial length of the bypass flow path is greater than the axial length of the intermediate gasket. Collection kit.

6. A syringe having a first chamber for accommodating a predetermined amount of the liquid sample and a second chamber for accommodating the predetermined amount of the liquid sample, a sampling holder to which a culture bottle can be connected, a three-way stopcock connected to the connecting tube, the syringe, and the sampling holder, and selectively communicating any two of the connecting tube, the syringe, and the sampling holder, and an adjustment mechanism for maintaining a constant volume of the first chamber while the liquid sample in the second chamber is being collected in the culture bottle, wherein the syringe has an outer cylinder and a surface of the outer cylinder that is in contact with the inner surface of the outer cylinder. a collection method using a collection kit comprising an inner cylinder that slides while making liquid-tight contact with the inner circumferential surface of the inner cylinder, and a gasket that slides while making liquid-tight contact with the inner circumferential surface of the inner cylinder, the first chamber being formed between the inner cylinder and the interior of the outer cylinder, the second chamber being formed between the gasket and the interior of the inner cylinder, the first chamber and the second chamber being arranged side by side in the axial direction of the syringe, and the first chamber and the second chamber being in series communication with each other via a nozzle of the inner cylinder, and the adjustment mechanism being provided at a base end of the outer cylinder and having a lock mechanism that restricts relative movement of the inner cylinder with respect to the outer cylinder due to input of an external force to the inner cylinder, a bag connecting step of connecting the medical bag to the connecting tube; a first containing step of containing the predetermined amount of the liquid sample in the first chamber of the syringe; a second containing step of containing the predetermined amount of the liquid sample in the second chamber of the syringe after the first containing step; a bag separation step of separating the medical bag from the connecting tube; a first collection step of connecting an aerobic culture bottle to the sampling holder while restricting the relative movement of the inner cylinder with respect to the outer cylinder by the locking mechanism, and moving the gasket to collect the liquid sample in the second chamber into the aerobic culture bottle; a second collection step of releasing the relative movement of the inner cylinder with respect to the outer cylinder by the locking mechanism, connecting an anaerobic culture bottle to the sampling holder, and collecting the liquid sample in the first chamber into the anaerobic culture bottle; A collection method comprising:

7. A syringe comprising a connecting tube to which a medical bag containing a liquid sample can be connected, a syringe having a first chamber for containing a predetermined amount of the liquid sample and a second chamber for containing the predetermined amount of the liquid sample, a sampling holder to which a culture bottle can be connected, and a three-way stopcock connected to the connecting tube, the syringe and the sampling holder, and selectively communicating any two of the connecting tube, the syringe and the sampling holder, wherein the syringe comprises a cylindrical barrel body having a storage chamber extending in the axial direction, and a stopcock formed at a predetermined position of the barrel body and a bypass flow path bulging radially outward from the accommodating chamber; an intermediate gasket disposed in the accommodating chamber and sliding along an inner circumferential surface of the barrel body; a base end gasket disposed on a base end side of the intermediate gasket and sliding along the inner circumferential surface of the barrel body; and a plunger connected to the base end gasket, wherein the first chamber is formed on a tip end side of the intermediate gasket, the second chamber is formed between the intermediate gasket and the base end gasket, and the first chamber and the second chamber are in communication with each other via the bypass flow path, a bag connecting step of connecting the medical bag to the connecting tube; a first containing step of containing the predetermined amount of the liquid sample in the first chamber of the syringe by retracting the intermediate gasket together with the base end gasket toward the base end; a second accommodating step of accommodating the predetermined amount of the liquid sample in the second chamber of the syringe through the bypass flow path by retracting the base end gasket toward the base end after the first accommodating step; a bag separation step of separating the medical bag from the connecting tube; a first collection step of connecting an aerobic culture bottle to the sampling holder and collecting the liquid sample in the second chamber into the aerobic culture bottle through the bypass flow path; a second collection step of connecting an anaerobic culture bottle to the sampling holder and collecting the liquid sample in the first chamber into the anaerobic culture bottle; A collection method comprising:

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