Methods and Apparatus for Disinfecting and Reflux Prevention Flush Syringe Assembly

摘要

Embodiments of the invention are directed to flush syringe assemblies comprising an integrated contamination-prevention device integrated with device connector flushing positioned so that the practitioner cannot forget to apply disinfectant. The flush syringe assemblies comprise a barrel with an elongate plunger rod disposed therein and a cap comprising a passageway. The plunger rod includes a stopper of which at least a portion can be embedded in the passageway of the cap to form a plug in the cap.

主权项

1. A method of flushing a VAD comprising the steps of:
(a) providing a flush syringe assembly comprising
a barrel,a sleeve external to the barrel having a distal end and a proximal end, and an inside surface and an outside surface, wherein the sleeve slides from distal to proximal positions in relationship to the barrel, anda disinfecting system comprising a disinfectant contained in a hub wherein the disinfectant system is released upon proximal motion of the sleeve, the disinfecting system comprising a protective cover on the distal end of the syringe assembly; (b) using one hand to remove the protective cover from the distal end of the flush syringe assembly thereby exposing a disinfectant contained at the distal end of the syringe assembly; (c) using one hand to apply the disinfectant to a connector on the VAD; (d) using the same hand to eject the disinfectant system; (e) coupling the flush syringe assembly to the VAD; (f) using one hand to hold the flush syringe assembly and depress a plunger rod to flush the VAD with a flush solution that is contained in a chamber of the barrel; (g) using the same hand to continue to depress the plunger after the barrel is empty to embed a stopper tip into the VAD and retract the sleeve to expose a cap; and (h) separating the cap including the embedded stopper tip from the flush syringe assembly.