A DEVICE FOR DRAWING BLOOD

摘要

A device for drawing blood includes a disposable holder (12) defining a socket (14) for receiving one end of a vacuum vial (18). The holder (12) includes an inner needle-receiving formation (26) and an outer needle-receiving formation (28), the inner and outer needle-receiving formations being in fluid communication with one another. A hollow needle (32) is connected to the inner needle-receiving formation (26) so as to extend into the socket (14) for puncturing a stopper (52) on the vacuum vial when the vial is inserted into the socket. The outer needle-receiving formation (28) carries a hypodermic needle (38) and a safety cover (42) for the hypodermic needle. The safety cover includes a cup (44) having an off-centre opening (46) through which the point of the needle (38) can pass, and a resilient member (48) for holding the cup over the point of the needle when the needle is inoperative so as to cover the point of the needle.