Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

Method and apparatus for obtaining a sample of blood from a patient for subsequent diagnostic tests, e.g., glucose monitoring. In one aspect of the invention, the method comprises the steps of: (a) forming an unobstructed opening in the area of the skin from which the sample of blood is to be extracted; and (b) extracting the sample of blood from the unobstructed opening in the skin, with the aid of a vacuum and a stretching of the skin. In another aspect of the invention, an apparatus for carrying out the method described previously is provided. The apparatus comprises: (a) a device for forming an unobstructed opening in an area of skin from which said sample is to be extracted, preferably a lancing assembly; and (b) a vacuum pump. Preferably, the apparatus also includes a housing. In another aspect of this invention, an article is provided for an article capable of both collecting blood and detecting an analyte in that blood is provided. The article, which contains an appropriate detection element for determining the amount of analyte in the blood, can be used in conjunction with a meter that measures the signal generated by the detection element of the article. In one embodiment, the article is a multiple-layer element comprising: (a) a layer capable of receiving blood and transporting the blood received by means of chemically aided wicking; (b) a layer capable of detecting the presence of analyte or measuring the amount of analyte in blood; and (c) a layer that can be placed in contact with a meter, the meter-contactable layer overlying the blood-transporting layer, said layer (a) capable of transporting blood to said layer (b).

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim