Collection kit

Abstract

This collection kit (10) comprises: an inflow tube (16) to which a medical bag (12) is connected; and a first storage section (201) and a second storage section (202) for storing a collected substance (M). The collection kit (10) further comprises a flow path switching unit (18) disposed between the first storage section (201) / the second storage section (202) and the inflow tube (16). The flow path switching unit (18) selectively causes the inflow tube (16) to communicate with the first storage section (201) or the second storage section (202).

Description

Collection kit

[0001] The present invention relates to a collection kit for transferring a collection target (mainly liquid medicines) contained in a medical bag into a plurality of sampling containers.

[0002] Blood products include red blood cell products, plasma products, platelet products, and whole blood products. To ensure safety, small samples of blood products may be collected and cultured. In a culture test, the sample is collected in a culture bottle (sampling container), and the bottle is placed in an environment favorable for bacterial growth to detect the presence or absence of pathogens.

[0003] Below, the procedure for transferring a platelet preparation from a medical bag containing a platelet preparation (hereinafter referred to as a platelet bag) to two culture bottles will be explained using the example of the medical bag.

[0004] A small-capacity collection bag is connected to the platelet bag, and a portion of the platelet product from the platelet bag is transferred to the collection bag. The collection bag is then detached from the platelet bag. Next, in a clean bench, the collection bag is connected to a tube extending from a sample collection tube, and a specified amount of the platelet product is transferred from the collection bag to the sample collection tube using the scale on the sample collection tube as a guide. Two culture bottles are then connected to the sample collection tube in sequence, and the specified amounts of the platelet product are transferred to the two culture bottles. One of the two culture bottles is used for anaerobic culture, and the other is used for aerobic culture.

[0005] For example, US Pat. No. 8,777,921 discloses a collection kit for collecting samples from medical bags.

[0006] U.S. Patent No. 8,777,921

[0007] To further improve the safety of blood products, culture testing of all blood products is being considered. Therefore, it is necessary to improve the work efficiency of culture testing of blood products. In addition, it is desirable to be able to collect a predetermined amount of sample into multiple sampling containers.

[0008] The present invention aims to solve the above-mentioned problems.

[0009] (1) An aspect of the present invention is a collection kit for collecting a collection target contained in a medical bag into a plurality of sampling containers, comprising: an inflow tube to which the medical bag is connected; a plurality of storage sections connected downstream of the inflow tube and storing the collection target; a plurality of adapters connected to each of the storage sections and to which each of the sampling containers is attached; a flow path switching section disposed between the inflow tube and the plurality of storage sections and selectively connecting the inflow tube to one of the plurality of storage sections; and an exhaust section for exhausting air from inside the plurality of storage sections.

[0010] According to this collection kit, by providing a flow path switching section for storing the objects to be collected in multiple storage sections, work efficiency can be improved when collecting the objects to be collected into multiple sampling containers, and a predetermined amount of the objects to be collected can be collected.

[0011] (2) In the collection kit described in (1) above, each of the multiple storage sections may include a relay tube that receives the collection target that has passed through the inlet tube, and a container connected downstream of the relay tube, capable of temporarily storing the collection target, and having a storage chamber with a volume larger than the volume of the relay tube.

[0012] This configuration makes it easy to store a predetermined amount of the sample target in the storage chamber of each storage unit.

[0013] (3) In the collection kit described in (1) or (2) above, the flow path switching unit may be a stopcock having a flow path communicating with the inflow tube and a switching member that operates to connect any one of the multiple storage units to the inflow tube via the flow path.

[0014] With this configuration, by operating the switching member of the stopcock, communication between one of the plurality of storage sections and the inflow tube can be effectively switched.

[0015] (4) In the collection kit described in (2) above, the flow path switching unit may include a plurality of blocking members provided on each of the relay tubes to block communication between the plurality of storage units and the inlet tube.

[0016] This configuration allows the flow path switching unit to have a simple structure and reduce costs.

[0017] (5) In the collection kit according to any one of (1) to (4) above, the exhaust section may be provided in each of the plurality of storage sections, thereby enabling the air in each storage section to be effectively exhausted to the atmosphere when the collection target is stored in each of the plurality of storage sections.

[0018] According to the present invention, the collection kit includes a flow path switching unit disposed between the inflow tube connected to the medical bag and the plurality of storage units, and the flow path switching unit selectively connects the inflow tube to one of the plurality of storage units. By providing a flow path switching unit for storing the sample to be collected in the plurality of storage units, the work efficiency when collecting the sample to be collected into the plurality of sampling containers attached to the plurality of adapters can be improved, and a predetermined amount of the sample to be collected can be collected.

[0019] FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of a collection kit according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2A is an enlarged explanatory diagram of a flow path switching unit showing a first position of a switching member. FIG. 2B is an enlarged explanatory diagram of a flow path switching unit showing a second position of a switching member. FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of a case where a collection target is stored in a first storage unit of a collection kit. FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of a case where a collection target is stored in a second storage unit of a collection kit. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of a case where a collection target is transferred from a first storage unit to a first sampling container. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of a case where a collection target is transferred from a second storage unit to a second sampling container. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram of a collection kit according to a first modified example. FIG. 8 is a schematic diagram of a collection kit according to a second modified example.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 1 , the collection kit 10 according to this embodiment is used to transfer a collection target M contained in a medical bag 12 shown in FIG. 3 to multiple sampling containers 14 (see FIG. 5 ). The collection target M is, for example, a blood product such as a platelet product. The collection target M may also be a pharmaceutical product other than a blood product. The collection target M may also be a liquid sample other than a pharmaceutical product. The medical bag 12 may also be a blood bag system for centrifuging blood containing multiple components into multiple components with different specific gravities (e.g., three components: a light component, a medium component, and a heavy component, or two components: a light component and a heavy component), and storing and storing each component in a separate bag. In this case, the collection kit 10 may be connected to the blood bag system.

[0021] As shown in Figure 1, collection kit 10 includes an inflow tube 16 to which a medical bag 12 (see Figure 3) is connected, a flow path switching unit 18, a plurality of storage units 20, and a plurality of adapters 22. Hereinafter, the extension direction of inflow tube 16 (direction of arrow V) in collection kit 10 shown in Figure 1 will be referred to as the up-down direction. The direction perpendicular to the up-down direction will be referred to as the width direction of collection kit 10 (direction of arrow W).

[0022] The inflow tube 16 is a transparent or translucent medical tube. The inflow tube 16 is made of a thermoplastic resin such as polyvinyl chloride resin. The inflow tube 16 can be connected to or disconnected from other medical tubes without exposing the inside to the outside air by using a sterile connection device or a tube sealer.

[0023] The inlet tube 16 has an upstream end 16 a and a downstream end 16 b. When the collection kit 10 is initially provided as a product, the upstream end 16 a is welded and sealed. The downstream end 16 b is connected to the flow path switching unit 18.

[0024] The flow path switching unit 18 is disposed between the inflow tube 16 and the plurality of storage units 20. The flow path switching unit 18 selectively connects the inflow tube 16 to one of the plurality of storage units 20. As shown in FIG. 2A , the flow path switching unit 18 is a stopcock 24. The stopcock 24 includes a housing 26 and a switching member 28 housed inside the housing 26. In a plan view of the stopcock 24 shown in FIG. 2A , the housing 26 is formed in a hollow circular shape. The housing 26 has an accommodation space 261 inside which the switching member 28 is housed.

[0025] The housing 26 has an inlet port 30, a first port 321, and a second port 322. In other words, the housing 26 is a three-way stopcock with three ports. The inlet port 30, the first port 321, and the second port 322 each protrude radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the housing 26. The inlet port 30, the first port 321, and the second port 322 each communicate with the accommodation space 261 of the housing 26.

[0026] The downstream end 16b of the inflow tube 16 is connected to the introduction port 30. The introduction port 30 is a port into which the collection target M flows from the medical bag 12. The first port 321 is arranged spaced apart from the introduction port 30 in the circumferential direction of the housing 26. The first port 321 is a port that transfers the collection target M that flows in from the introduction port 30 toward the sampling container 14. The second port 322 is arranged spaced apart from both the introduction port 30 and the first port 321 in the circumferential direction of the housing 26. The second port 322 is a port that transfers the collection target M that flows in from the introduction port 30 toward the sampling container 14.

[0027] The switching member 28 is formed in a circular shape and is rotatably accommodated in the accommodation space 261 of the housing 26. The switching member 28 has a flow path 34 that communicates with the inlet tube 16. In a plan view of the switching member 28, the flow path 34 is formed in a substantially L-shape. The flow path 34 has a first opening 341 and a second opening 342. The first opening 341 is provided at one end of the flow path 34. The second opening 342 is provided at the other end of the flow path 34. The first opening 341 and the second opening 342 open on the outer peripheral surface of the switching member 28. The first opening 341 and the second opening 342 are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction of the switching member 28.

[0028] The switching member 28 operates to connect one of the plurality of first ports 321 and second ports 322 to the introduction port 30 via the flow path 34. Rotation of the switching member 28 selectively connects one of the first ports 321 and second ports 322 to the introduction port 30 via the flow path 34. As shown in FIG. 2A , when the switching member 28 is in a first position, the stopcock 24 connects the introduction port 30 to the first port 321 via the flow path 34. In the first position, the first opening 341 faces the first port 321, and the second opening 342 faces the introduction port 30. In the first position, the switching member 28 blocks the second port 322, thereby blocking communication between the introduction port 30 and the second port 322.

[0029] 2B , the switching member 28 communicates between the inlet port 30 and the second port 322 via the flow path 34. In the second position, the first opening 341 faces the inlet port 30, and the second opening 342 faces the second port 322. In the second position, the switching member 28 blocks the first port 321, thereby blocking communication between the inlet port 30 and the first port 321.

[0030] 1 , the plurality of storage units 20 are connected downstream of the inflow tube 16 and store the collection target objects M. The plurality of storage units 20 include a first storage unit 201 and a second storage unit 202. The first storage unit 201 includes a first relay tube 361 connected to the flow path switching unit 18, and a first storage body 381 connected downstream of the first relay tube 361. Note that the plurality of storage units 20 is not limited to two storage units 20. The plurality of storage units 20 may also include three or more storage units 20.

[0031] The first relay tube 361 is a transparent or translucent medical tube. The first relay tube 361 is made of a thermoplastic resin such as polyvinyl chloride resin. The upstream end of the first relay tube 361 is connected to the first port 321 of the stopcock 24. The first container 381 is a cylindrical body having a first container chamber 401 therein. The first container 381 is made of a hard material (plastic material) such as polypropylene, polyethylene, or polycarbonate. The volume of the first container chamber 401 is, for example, approximately 8 mL to approximately 10 mL. The first container chamber 401 temporarily stores the collection target M to be collected in the first sampling container 141, which is one of the multiple sampling containers 14. The downstream end of the first relay tube 361 is connected to one end of the first container 201. The first relay tube 361 and the first container chamber 401 are in communication. A first outlet port 421 is provided at the other end of the first storage section 201 for discharging the collection target M stored in the first storage chamber 401. The first outlet port 421 is provided downstream of the first storage section 201. The first outlet port 421 is not directly connected to the flow path switching section 18.

[0032] The volume of the first storage chamber 401 is larger than the volume of the first relay tube 361. The volume of the first relay tube 361 is the length of the first relay tube 361 along the extension direction of the first relay tube 361 multiplied by the inner diameter.

[0033] The second relay tube 362 is a transparent or translucent medical tube. The second relay tube 362 is made of a thermoplastic resin such as polyvinyl chloride resin. The upstream end of the second relay tube 362 is connected to the second port 322 of the stopcock 24. The second container 382 is a cylindrical body having a second container chamber 402 therein. The second container 382 is made of a hard material (plastic material) such as polypropylene, polyethylene, or polycarbonate. The volume of the second container chamber 402 is, for example, approximately 8 mL to approximately 10 mL. The second container chamber 402 temporarily stores the collection target M to be collected in the second sampling container 142, which is one of the multiple sampling containers 14. The downstream end of the second relay tube 362 is connected to one end of the second container 202. The second relay tube 362 and the second container chamber 402 are in communication with each other. A second outlet port 422 is provided at the other end of the second storage section 202 for discharging the collection target M stored in the second storage chamber 402. The second outlet port 422 is provided downstream of the second storage section 202. The second outlet port 422 is not directly connected to the flow path switching section 18.

[0034] The volume of the second accommodating chamber 402 is larger than the volume of the second relay tube 362. The volume of the second relay tube 362 is the length of the second relay tube 362 along the extension direction of the second relay tube 362 multiplied by the inner diameter.

[0035] The first container 381 and the second container 382 are not limited to being formed from a cylindrical body. For example, the first container 381 and the second container 382 may have a collection bag made of two flexible sheets that are overlapped and welded in the thickness direction, and the collection bag may be disposed between the two flexible sheets. In this case, the collection bag is formed from a soft material.

[0036] A connecting member 44 is connected to each of the first outlet port 421 and the second outlet port 422. The connecting member 44 protrudes outward beyond the first housing 381 and the second housing 382. Each connecting member 44 has a breakable plug (not shown) therein. In an initial state, the first outlet port 421 and the second outlet port 422 are sealed by the respective plugs.

[0037] A plurality of sampling containers 14 are attached to the plurality of adapters 22, respectively. The plurality of adapters 22 include a first adapter 221 and a second adapter 222. The first adapter 221 is connected to the other end of the first housing 381 via a connecting member 44. The first adapter 221 protrudes from the other end of the first housing 381. The second adapter 222 is connected to the other end of the second housing 382 via the connecting member 44. The second adapter 222 protrudes from the other end of the second housing 382. The first adapter 221 and the second adapter 222 each include an adapter main body 46 and a communicating tube 48 provided at the upper end of the adapter main body 46. The communicating tube 48 is inserted into the inner hole of the connecting member 44, thereby connecting the first adapter 221 and the second adapter 222 to the first housing chamber 401 and the second housing chamber 402.

[0038] Each of the first adaptor 221 and the second adaptor 222 includes a needle tube 50 and a rubber cover 52 that covers the needle tube 50. The needle tube 50 is provided inside the adaptor main body 46 and is connected to the communicating tube 48. When the neck of the sampling container 14 is inserted into the adaptor main body 46, the needle tube 50 penetrates the stopper (not shown) of the sampling container 14 (see FIG. 5 ). When the connecting member 44 is opened, the sampling container 14 communicates with the first storage chamber 401 and the second storage chamber 402 via the communicating tube 48 and the needle tube 50.

[0039] When the needle tube 50 is inserted into the stopper of the sampling container 14, the rubber cover 52 is compressed by being pushed toward the first housing portion 201 and the second housing portion 202. The needle tube 50 penetrates the compressed rubber cover 52. When the needle tube 50 is removed from the stopper of the first sampling container 141, the rubber cover 52 stretches due to its elastic restoring force and covers the needle tube 50 again.

[0040] The collection kit 10 further has a plurality of exhaust units 54. The plurality of exhaust units 54 includes a first exhaust unit 541 provided in the first storage unit 201 and a second exhaust unit 542 provided in the second storage unit 202. The number of exhaust units 54 is the same as the number of storage units 20. The first exhaust unit 541 is provided to exhaust air inside the first storage chamber 401. The first exhaust unit 541 is connected to the other end of the first storage unit 201 via an attachment member 55 and communicates with the first storage chamber 401. The second exhaust unit 542 is provided to exhaust air inside the second storage chamber 402. The second exhaust unit 542 is connected to the other end of the second storage unit 202 via an attachment member 55 and communicates with the second storage chamber 402.

[0041] Each of the first exhaust section 541 and the second exhaust section 542 includes a filter 56 that allows gas to pass through but prevents liquid from passing through. When the main component of the collection target M is water, the filter 56 is preferably a hydrophilic filter. In this case, when the collection target M moves through the first storage chamber 401 and the second storage chamber 402 and comes into contact with the filter 56, the pores of the filter 56 are blocked by the liquid. After the pores of the filter 56 are blocked, the filter 56 prevents gas and liquid from passing through. Therefore, leakage of the collection target M from the first storage chamber 401 and the second storage chamber 402 to the outside is prevented. An example of a collection target M whose main component is water is a blood product.

[0042] The exhaust unit 54 is not limited to a configuration in which it is connected to the other end of the first housing unit 201 and the second housing unit 202 via the mounting member 55. The exhaust unit 54 may be provided on a surface other than the other end of the first housing unit 201 and the second housing unit 202. For example, the filters 56a of the exhaust unit 54 may be provided on the outer peripheral surfaces of the first housing body 381 and the second housing body 382 (see the two-dot chain line shape in FIG. 1 ). In this case, the filters 56a are disposed in positions facing the first housing chamber 401 and the second housing chamber 402, respectively, so that the air in the first housing chamber 401 and the second housing chamber 402 can be directly exhausted to the atmosphere through the filters 56a.

[0043] Next, a collection method for separating the collection target M into the first sampling container 141 and the second sampling container 142 using the collection kit 10 will be described.

[0044] 3, a step of connecting the medical bag 12 to the inflow tube 16 is performed. The operator connects the medical bag 12 containing the collection object M, such as a platelet preparation, to the inflow tube 16. At this time, the medical bag 12 is positioned above the collection kit 10. The operator joins the supply tube 58 of the medical bag 12 to the inflow tube 16.

[0045] Next, a step of transferring the collection target M to the first storage unit 201 (first storage chamber 401) is performed. Before transferring the collection target M to the first storage unit 201, the operator rotates the stopcock 24 to a first position where the first opening 341 of the flow path 34 faces the first port 321 and the second opening 342 faces the inflow tube 16. As shown in FIG. 2A , in the first position, the inflow tube 16 and the first storage unit 201 communicate with each other via the flow path 34. In this case, the inflow tube 16 and the second storage unit 202 (second port 322) are not in communication with each other. In addition, the operator performs the work with the first exhaust unit 541 positioned above the first storage unit 201.

[0046] The collection target M is, for example, a liquid and is flowable. Therefore, the collection target M flows out of the medical bag 12 by gravity and moves from the introduction port 30 via the supply tube 58 and the inflow tube 16, through the flow path 34 of the stopcock 24, and the first port 321 to the first relay tube 361. The collection target M further flows into the first storage chamber 401 of the first storage body 381 through the first relay tube 361. At this time, because the second port 322 is closed by the switching member 28, movement of the collection target M from the inflow tube 16 to the second storage section 202 (second relay tube 362) is prevented.

[0047] With the first exhaust section 541 positioned above the first storage section 201, when the collection target M flows into the first storage chamber 401, the air remaining in the first relay tube 361 and the first storage chamber 401 is pushed upward within the first storage chamber 401. The air is exhausted to the atmosphere through the filter 56 of the first exhaust section 541.

[0048] After the first storage chamber 401 is filled with the collection target M, the collection target M flows into the filter 56 of the first exhaust section 541. When the collection target M comes into contact with the filter 56, the collection target M is captured and held in the pores of the filter 56. This causes the filter 56 to block the collection target M within the first exhaust section 541. As a result, the first exhaust section 541 is closed, and the collection target M is prevented from passing through the filter 56 and being discharged to the outside. A required amount (e.g., approximately 8 mL to approximately 10 mL) of the collection target M is stored in the first storage chamber 401. The supply of the collection target M from the medical bag 12 to the first storage section 201 stops.

[0049] Next, a step of transferring the collection target M to the second storage section 202 (second storage chamber 402) is carried out.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 4 , the operator rotates the stopcock 24 from the first position to the second position (see FIG. 2B ). As shown in FIG. 2B , when the switching member 28 is in the second position, the first opening 341 of the flow path 34 faces the inflow tube 16, and the second opening 342 faces the second port 322 (second relay tube 362), thereby connecting the inflow tube 16 to the second accommodation section 202. In this case, the inflow tube 16 and the first accommodation section 201 (first port 321) are not connected to each other. The operator also performs the work with the second exhaust section 542 positioned above the second accommodation section 202.

[0051] The collection target M flows out of the medical bag 12 due to gravity and moves from the introduction port 30 through the supply tube 58 and the inflow tube 16, to the flow path 34 of the stopcock 24, and to the second port 322. The collection target M further flows from the second port 322 through the second relay tube 362 into the second storage chamber 402 of the second storage unit 202. At this time, because the first port 321 is closed by the switching member 28, the movement of the collection target M from the inflow tube 16 to the first storage unit 201 is prevented. The collection target M stored in the first storage unit 201 is prevented from flowing back toward the second storage unit 202.

[0052] With the second exhaust section 542 positioned above the second storage section 202, when the collection target M flows into the second storage chamber 402, the air remaining in the second relay tube 362 and the second storage chamber 402 is pushed upward within the second storage chamber 402. The air is exhausted to the atmosphere through the filter 56 of the second exhaust section 542.

[0053] After the second storage chamber 402 is filled with the collection target M, the collection target M flows into the second exhaust section 542. When the collection target M comes into contact with the filter 56 of the second exhaust section 542, the collection target M is captured and held in the pores of the filter 56. This causes the filter 56 to block the collection target M within the second exhaust section 542. As a result, the second exhaust section 542 is closed, and the collection target M is prevented from passing through the filter 56 and being discharged to the outside. A required amount (e.g., approximately 8 mL to approximately 10 mL) of the collection target M is stored in the second storage chamber 402. The supply of the collection target M from the medical bag 12 to the second storage section 202 stops.

[0054] The process of transferring the collection target M to the first storage section 201 and the second storage section 202 is not limited to the case where the process is performed in the order of transferring the collection target M to the first storage section 201 and then transferring the collection target M to the second storage section 202. The transfer of the collection target M to the second storage section 202 may be performed before the transfer of the collection target M to the first storage section 201. In this case, the switching member 28 of the stopcock 24 is switched from the second position to the first position.

[0055] Next, the medical bag 12 is separated from the inflow tube 16. At the same time that the inflow tube 16 is disconnected from the supply tube 58 of the medical bag 12, the upstream end 16a of the inflow tube 16 is sealed by welding. A tube sealer, such as a high-frequency sealer or an ultrasonic sealer, is used to seal the inflow tube 16. Once separated from the collection kit 10, the medical bag 12 is stored until the test is completed.

[0056] Next, the process of transferring the collection target M from the first storage chamber 401 to the first sampling container 141 is performed. At this time, as shown in FIG. 5 , the switching member 28 of the stopcock 24 is set to the second position. That is, the switching member 28 blocks communication between the introduction port 30 and the first storage chamber 401. The first sampling container 141 is connected to the first adapter 221. The lid 60 of the first adapter 221 is opened, and the neck of the first sampling container 141 is inserted into the adapter body 46. This causes the needle tube 50 provided inside the adapter body 46 to pierce the stopper of the first sampling container 141.

[0057] The operator positions the first sampling container 141 below the first storage section 201 and bends the plug of the connecting member 44 to break the plug, thereby opening the first outflow port 421. The collection target M in the first storage chamber 401 is sucked out by the negative pressure within the first sampling container 141, passes through the first storage chamber 401, the first outflow port 421, the communicating tube 48 of the first adapter 221, and the needle tube 50, and flows into the first sampling container 141. As a result, substantially the entire amount of the collection target M stored in the first storage chamber 401 is transferred to the first sampling container 141. The amount of the collection target M in the first sampling container 141 is, for example, approximately 8 mL to 10 mL. At this time, the switching member 28 of the stopcock 24 blocks communication between the second storage section 202 and the first storage section 201, preventing the collection target M in the second storage chamber 402 from flowing into the first storage section 201.

[0058] 6 , after removing the first sampling container 141 from the first adaptor 221, the second sampling container 142 is connected to the second adaptor 222 and the sample M in the second storage chamber 402 is transferred to the second sampling container 142. After removing the first sampling container 141, the switching member 28 is rotated to block communication between the inlet tube 16 and the second port 322. Note that the connection of the second sampling container 142 is the same as when connecting the first sampling container 141, and therefore a detailed description of the connection between the second adaptor 222 and the second sampling container 142 will be omitted.

[0059] The operator positions the second sampling container 142 below the second storage section 202, and bends the plug of the connecting member 44 to break it, opening the second outflow port 422. The collection target M in the second storage chamber 402 is sucked out by the negative pressure within the second sampling container 142, passes through the second storage chamber 402, the second outflow port 422, the communicating tube 48 of the second adapter 222, and the needle tube 50, and flows into the second sampling container 142. As a result, substantially the entire amount of the collection target M stored in the second storage chamber 402 is transferred to the second sampling container 142. The amount of the collection target M in the second sampling container 142 is, for example, approximately 8 mL to 10 mL. The second sampling container 142 is then removed from the second adapter 222.

[0060] This completes the collection (sampling) of the collection target M using the collection kit 10. That is, the first sample MS1 is introduced into the first sampling container 141, and the second sample MS2 is introduced into the second sampling container 142.

[0061] The process of transferring the collection target M to the first sampling container 141 and the second sampling container 142 is not limited to the case where the process is performed in the order of transfer from the first storage chamber 401 to the first sampling container 141 and then transfer from the second storage chamber 402 to the second sampling container 142. The transfer of the collection target M from the second storage chamber 402 to the second sampling container 142 may be performed before the transfer of the collection target M from the first storage chamber 401 to the first sampling container 141. Alternatively, the collection target M may be collected in the first storage chamber 401 first, and then transferred from the first storage chamber 401 to the first sampling container 141. After that, the collection target M may be collected in the second storage chamber 402 and then transferred from the second storage chamber 402 to the second sampling container 142. In this case, the transfer of the collection target object M from the second storage chamber 402 to the second sampling container 142 may be performed before the transfer of the collection target object M from the first storage chamber 401 to the first sampling container 141 .

[0062] If the collection target M is a blood product, a culture test is performed on the first sample MS1 and the second sample MS2. Specifically, the first sample MS1 (see FIG. 5 ) in the first sampling container 141 is used, for example, for anaerobic culture to observe whether anaerobic bacteria grow. The second sample MS2 (see FIG. 6 ) in the second sampling container 142 is used, for example, for aerobic culture to observe whether aerobic bacteria grow. In both tests, the first sampling container 141 and the second sampling container 142 are used as culture bottles. If the first sample MS1 and the second sample MS2 pass the culture test, the collection target M in the medical bag 12 from which the first sample MS1 and the second sample MS2 were collected is determined to be an acceptable product. The acceptable product is used for patient treatment (e.g., blood transfusion).

[0063] This embodiment has the following advantages.

[0064] As shown in FIG. 1 , the collection kit 10 includes a flow path switching unit 18 disposed between an inflow tube 16 to which the medical bag 12 is connected and a plurality of storage units 20 (a first storage unit 201, a second storage unit 202), and the flow path switching unit 18 selectively connects the inflow tube 16 to one of the plurality of storage units 20.

[0065] As a result, by providing a flow path switching unit 18 for storing the objects to be collected M in multiple storage units 20, the work efficiency when collecting the objects to be collected M into multiple sampling containers 14 attached to multiple adapters 22 can be improved, and a predetermined amount of the objects to be collected M can be collected.

[0066] Each of the multiple storage units 20 includes a relay tube 36 (first relay tube 361, second relay tube 362) that receives the collection target M that has passed through the inlet tube 16, and a first storage body 381 and a second storage body 382 that are connected downstream of the relay tube 36 and can temporarily store the collection target M, and have a first storage chamber 401 and a second storage chamber 402 that have a capacity larger than the capacity of each of the first relay tube 361 and the second relay tube 362. This makes it easy to store a predetermined amount of the collection target M in the first storage chamber 401 and the second storage chamber 402 in the multiple storage units 20.

[0067] 2A , the flow path switching unit 18 is a stopcock 24 having a switching member 28 that operates to connect one of the plurality of storage units 20 to the inflow tube 16 via a flow path 34 that communicates with the inflow tube 16. Thus, by operating the switching member 28 of the stopcock 24, communication between one of the plurality of storage units 20 and the inflow tube 16 can be effectively switched.

[0068] As shown in Figure 1, an exhaust section 54 is provided in each of the multiple storage sections 20, so that when the collection target M is stored in the first storage chamber 401 and the second storage chamber 402, respectively, the air in the first storage chamber 401 and the second storage chamber 402 can be effectively exhausted to the atmosphere.

[0069] As shown in Fig. 7 , the collection kit 10A according to the first modification includes a plurality of storage units 20A. The plurality of storage units 20A connect the flow path switching unit 18 and a plurality of adapters 22. The plurality of storage units 20A each include a plurality of storage tubes 70 having an inner cavity capable of temporarily storing the collection target M. The plurality of storage tubes 70 include a first storage tube 701 and a second storage tube 702. A first adapter 221 is connected to the downstream end of the first storage tube 701, and a second adapter 222 is connected to the downstream end of the second storage tube 702.

[0070] The first storage tube 701 has a first storage chamber 721 capable of storing a collection target M therein. The first storage chamber 721 is the inner cavity of the first storage tube 701. A first exhaust unit 541 is connected to the first storage tube 701 via an attachment member 55 and communicates with the first storage chamber 721. The second storage tube 702 has a second storage chamber 722 capable of storing a collection target M therein. The second storage chamber 722 is the inner cavity of the second storage tube 702. A second exhaust unit 542 is connected to the second storage tube 702 via an attachment member 55 and communicates with the second storage chamber 722. The first storage tube 701 and the second storage tube 702 have the same length and inner diameter. The volume of the first storage chamber 721 of the first storage tube 701 is, for example, about 8 mL to about 10 mL. The volume of the second storage chamber 722 of the second storage tube 702 is, for example, about 8 mL to about 10 mL. Note that the first storage tube 701 and the second storage tube 702 are not limited to having the same length and inner diameter. The length and inner diameter of the first storage tube 701 and the length and inner diameter of the second storage tube 702 may be different.

[0071] By setting the switching member 28 of the flow path switching unit 18 to the first position, it is possible to temporarily store the collection target object M in the first storage chamber 721 of the first storage tube 701. By setting the switching member 28 of the flow path switching unit 18 to the second position (see the two-dot chain line shape in FIG. 7 ), it is possible to temporarily store the collection target object M in the second storage chamber 722 of the second storage tube 702.

[0072] According to the first modification, by configuring a plurality of storage units 20A from the first storage tube 701 and the second storage tube 702, the first adapter 221 and the second adapter 222 can be directly connected to the flow path switching unit 18 using only the first storage tube 701 and the second storage tube 702. Therefore, the collection kit 10A can have a simple structure and can be made less expensive.

[0073] 8 includes a flow path switching unit 18B that connects the inflow tube 16 to a plurality of storage units 20 and selectively connects the inflow tube 16 to one of the storage units 20. The downstream end 16b of the inflow tube 16 is connected to a branching point 80 between a first relay tube 361 and a second relay tube 362.

[0074] The flow path switching unit 18B includes a plurality of blocking members 82. Each of the plurality of blocking members 82 is, for example, a clamp. The plurality of blocking members 82 includes a first blocking member 821 and a second blocking member 822. The first blocking member 821 is provided on the first relay tube 361. By clamping the first relay tube 361 with the first blocking member 821, communication between the inflow tube 16 and the first accommodating unit 201 through the first relay tube 361 is blocked. The second blocking member 822 is provided on the second relay tube 362. By clamping the second relay tube 362 with the second blocking member 822, communication between the inflow tube 16 and the second accommodating unit 202 through the second relay tube 362 is blocked. Note that the first blocking member 821 and the second blocking member 822 may be detachable from the first relay tube 361 and the second relay tube 362, respectively.

[0075] When transferring the collection target M from the medical bag 12 to the first storage section 201, the first closing member 821 is opened to release the blockage of the first relay tube 361. The second closing member 822 is closed to the second relay tube 362. The inflow tube 16 and the first storage section 201 are connected via the first relay tube 361. The collection target M flowing out of the medical bag 12 moves through the inflow tube 16, the branching section 80, and the first relay tube 361 of the first storage section 201, and is stored in the first storage chamber 401 of the first storage section 201. At this time, the second closing member 822 blocks communication between the inflow tube 16 and the second storage section 202, preventing the collection target M from moving to the second storage section 202.

[0076] When transferring the collection target M from the medical bag 12 to the second storage section 202, the first blocking member 821 blocks the first relay tube 361, and the second blocking member 822 opens the second relay tube 362, thereby opening the inlet tube 16 and the second storage section 202. The collection target M flowing out of the medical bag 12 moves through the inlet tube 16, the branching section 80, and the second relay tube 362 of the second storage section 202, and is stored in the second storage chamber 402 of the second storage section 202. At this time, the first blocking member 821 blocks communication between the inlet tube 16 and the first storage section 201, preventing the collection target M from moving to the first storage section 201. Furthermore, since the multiple storage sections 20 and the multiple blocking members 82 correspond to each other (one blocking member 82 is provided for one storage section 20), when three or more storage sections 20 are provided, the number of blocking members 82 is the same as the number of storage sections 20.

[0077] The second modified example has the following effects.

[0078] By configuring the flow path switching unit 18B of the collection kit 10B from multiple closure members 82, the flow path switching unit 18B can be simplified in structure and reduced in cost. Compared to configuring the flow path switching unit 18B from a stopcock 24, the collection kit 10B can be simplified in structure and reduced in cost.

[0079] The present invention is not limited to the above disclosure, and various configurations can be adopted without departing from the gist of the present invention.

Claims

1. A collection kit for collecting samples contained in a medical bag into a plurality of sampling containers, comprising: an inflow tube to which the medical bag is connected; a plurality of storage sections connected downstream of the inflow tube and storing the samples; a plurality of adapters connected to the plurality of storage sections respectively and to which a plurality of the sampling containers are respectively attached; a flow path switching section disposed between the inflow tube and the plurality of storage sections and selectively communicating the inflow tube with one of the plurality of storage sections; and an exhaust section for exhausting air inside the plurality of storage sections.

2. A collection kit according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of storage sections comprises: a relay tube that receives the sample that has passed through the inlet tube; and a container connected downstream of the relay tube, capable of temporarily storing the sample, and having a storage chamber with a volume larger than the volume of the relay tube.

3. A collection kit according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the flow path switching section is a stopcock having a flow path communicating with the inflow tube and a switching member operable to connect any one of the plurality of storage sections to the inflow tube via the flow path.

4. A collection kit according to claim 2, wherein the flow path switching section comprises a plurality of blocking members provided on each of the relay tubes, respectively, for blocking communication between the plurality of storage sections and the inlet tube.

5. A collection kit according to claim 1, wherein the exhaust section is provided in each of the plurality of storage sections.

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