Fluid access interface

Abstract

The present invention relates generally to systems, apparatuses, and methods for obtaining a fluid sample from a patient. In particular, the present invention relates to a various types of fluid access interfaces for enabling contact between a patient blood sample and blood parameter sensors for the measurement of physiological parameters and blood constituents.

1 . A blood constituent measuring device comprising:
 at least one transfer mechanism comprising:
 a fluid access interface configured to automatically interface with a patient blood access line at a sampling port to access a blood sample therefrom; and 
 a transfer tube configured to receive a blood sample from the patient blood access line; 
 wherein the transfer tube comprises a flexible portion configured to be contracted to direct the blood sample to a test substrate. 
   
     
     
         2 . The device of  claim 1 , wherein the at least one transfer mechanism is movable with respect to the sample port. 
     
     
         3 . The device of  claim 2 , wherein the at least one transfer mechanism comprises a plurality of transfer mechanisms and a plurality of test substrates, wherein each transfer mechanism is configured to transfer a blood sample to a corresponding test substrate. 
     
     
         4 . The device of  claim 3 , further comprising a housing containing said plurality of test substrates.