Patent Publication Number: US-7588562-B2

Title: Body fluid collection apparatus

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
   This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 10/154,512 filed May 24, 2002 now U.S. Pat. No. 7,118,559, the entire contents of which is hereby incorporated herein by reference. 

   BACKGROUND 
   1. Technical Field 
   The present disclosure generally relates to fluid collection apparatus, and more particularly, to an apparatus that facilitates fluid collection from an umbilical cord while preventing hazardous exposure to blood and body fluids collected. 
   2. Background of the Related Art 
   Body fluids, such as blood, urine, etc., can be collected during various medical procedures for analysis. For example, fluid and blood samples are typically collected from an umbilical cord of a newborn infant to ascertain blood type and Rh factor. Collection of umbilical cord blood is also beneficial due to its considerable curative value, e.g., use in bone marrow replacement procedures for treatment of cancer and immuno-deficiency disorders. Further, fetal blood has important commercial and therapeutic use in medical fields, such as, tissue culture, stem cell collection, pharmacology and biological research. 
   Several methods for umbilical cord blood sampling are known. One method includes holding a severed free end of an umbilical cord, still attached to a placenta, over a test tube or container. Blood is drained from the placenta into the test tube or container by milking the umbilical cord. A typical sample requires about 5 cc. This procedure has several disadvantages in that it is awkward to perform, difficult to control the sterility of the collected cord blood and may hazardously expose medical personnel to cord blood due to splattering, etc. 
   In another method, blood is drawn from the umbilical cord vein via a large gauge needle and syringe. This procedure is also awkward to perform and may hazardously expose medical personnel to potential needle sticks. More recently, an umbilical cord segment is clamped on two ends and moved to a collection device or container where the cord blood is drained by removing the clamps from either or both ends. Ultimately, the cord blood must be transferred to a storage container, such as a test tube, to prevent contamination of the blood and minimize hazardous exposure to health care workers. These funnel type collection devices require larger apertures that interface with non-standard wide-mouthed test tubes because they rely on gravity to cause the blood to flow. Other cord blood collection devices include large containers to hold the entire cord segment. The containers are sealed so that vacuum pressure can be used to cause blood to flow through a smaller aperture or needle. Needle type interfaces, however, must include shielding to protect medical personnel. The necessary shielding adds more bulk to the collection device. 
   The above devices disadvantageously expose medical personnel to accidental needle sticks and potentially hazardous body fluids. Needlesticks can, for example, occur during manipulation of a collection device including, assembly, dis-assembly or insertion into a blood vessel of the umbilical cord. Hazards such as, for example, needlesticks, splattering, etc. can present dangerous exposure to fluids contaminated with bacterial diseases, and potentially fatal viral infections such as AIDS, Hepatitis B and C, etc. 
   Attempts have been made to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and prevent hazardous exposure to blood and body fluids. Some designs employ a needle hood for a needle container which sealingly engages an evacuated tube. See, e.g., U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,915,384 and 5,342,328. Designs of this type, however, still involve the use of a container with a needle and may not adequately prevent hazardous exposure to blood and body fluids. Still other designs employ complicated valve connections between a container and a syringe for receiving collected cord blood. These prior designs, however, may not safely transfer fluid due to their complexity and number of parts. Complex structure can result in high manufacturing costs. Further, these configurations are not easily adapted to existing medical components. 
   Consequently, there remains a need to provide a more satisfactory solution for fluid collection apparatus by overcoming the disadvantages and drawbacks of the prior art. Therefore, it would be desirable to provide a fluid collection apparatus for collection of umbilical cord fluid which prevents hazardous exposure to blood and body fluids and is adaptable to existing medical components. Such a fluid collection apparatus should have reduced complexity to increase reliability and improve fluid collection. It would be highly desirable for the fluid collection apparatus to employ luer connections thereby minimizing the potential for inadvertent needle stick. 
   SUMMARY 
   Accordingly, the present disclosure addresses a need for a fluid collection apparatus which protects practitioners, supporting medical personnel and patients from hazardous exposure during umbilical cord fluid collection. The present disclosure resolves related disadvantages and drawbacks experienced in the prior art. More specifically, the apparatus and method of the present disclosure constitute an important advance in the art of fluid collection by providing an apparatus with reduced complexity and fewer needle interfaces. This structure advantageously improves safety and reliability while lowering manufacturing cost. Moreover, the apparatus does not require needle shields, etc. thereby reducing bulk. Desirably, the fluid collection apparatus employs luer connectors to avoid needle use and increase safety. 
   In one particular embodiment, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, a fluid collection apparatus is provided. The fluid collection apparatus includes a housing configured for receipt of fluid and has a first surface which defines a needleless first mating portion. A holder has a first end and a second end configured to receive an evacuated tube. The first end defines a second mating portion on an outer surface thereof which is in fluid communication with the evacuated tube. The first mating portion sealingly engages the second mating portion to establish fluid communication therebetween. 
   The housing may have a cylindrical body portion configured and dimensioned to support at least a portion of an umbilical cord. The first surface of the housing can have a funnel configuration. The first mating portion and the second mating portion may alternatively include a male connector and a female connector. Desirably, the first mating portion engages the second mating portion in a slip interference fit. 
   In another embodiment, the first mating portion has a locking surface that engages the second mating portion to lock the housing with the holder. The housing can be releasably locked with the holder. The locking surface may have a threaded portion that receives the second mating portion. In yet another embodiment, the first end of the holder includes a needle hub supporting a needle cannula in fluid communication with the second mating portion and extending away from the first mating portion. The needle cannula may engage the evacuated tube to establish fluid communication between the first mating portion and the evacuated tube. 
   In an alternate embodiment, an umbilical cord fluid collection apparatus includes a cylindrical housing defining a cavity for receipt of at least a portion of an umbilical cord. The housing has a funnel surface which defines a male luer connector. A holder has a first end and a second end configured to receive an evacuated tube. The first end defines a female luer connector on an outer surface thereof in fluid communication with an inner surface of the first end. The inner surface is in fluid communication with the evacuated tube. The male luer connector sealingly engages the female luer connector to establish fluid communication between the male luer connector and the evacuated tube. The configuration of the male luer connector of the housing advantageously facilitates adaptability to pre-existing holders having female luer connectors. The funnel surface may have a locking surface that engages the first end to lock the housing with the holder. The locking surface may be disposed about the male luer connector and includes a threaded portion that receives the first end of the holder. The inner surface of the first end can include a needle hub supporting a needle cannula in fluid communication with the female luer connector and extending away from the male luer connector. The needle cannula may engage the evacuated tube to establish fluid communication between the male luer connector and the evacuated tube. 
   A method for collecting umbilical cord fluid is provided including the steps of: providing a fluid collection apparatus, similar to those described, attaching a first mating portion to a second mating portion to form a non-puncturing seal therebetween; disposing umbilical cord fluid in a housing; inserting an evacuated tube with a holder to establish fluid communication between the second mating portion and the evacuated tube such that umbilical cord fluid is collected in the evacuated tube. The step of providing may include an inner surface of a first end of the holder having a needle cannula extending away from the first mating portion such that the step of inserting includes puncturing the evacuated tube with the needle cannula to establish fluid communication between the second mating portion and the evacuated tube. 
   Another particular embodiment of a fluid collection apparatus according to the present disclosure includes a support for standing the apparatus. As in the embodiments described above, a fluid collection apparatus includes a housing configured for receipt of fluid. The housing has a first surface which defines a needleless first mating portion. A holder having a first end and a second end is configured to receive an evacuated tube. The first end defines a second mating portion on an outer surface thereof which is in fluid communication with the evacuated tube. The first mating portion sealingly engages the second mating portion to establish fluid communication therebetween. A base disposed with the housing and being configured for support thereof. 
   In the particular embodiment, the base has a top opening adapted for receiving the housing. The base is adapted for standing on a surface and is configured to enclose the holder. The housing can have a flange portion extending radially therefrom that engages the base. In at least one embodiment, the base defines at least one rib which forms a step for supporting the housing. Similarly, the base can define a plurality of ribs, each forming a step for supporting the housing. The base can also includes a plurality of sidewall extensions separated by cutout portions. In an illustrative embodiment according to the present disclosure, the base is configured to enclose the housing when the housing is fitted to a holder with an evacuated tube installed in the holder. 
   Particular embodiments of apparatus according to the present disclosure also include a removable cap adapted to removably enclose an opening of the housing. The removable cap is adapted to provide a fluid seal with said housing. An illustrative embodiment of such a cap includes a finger grip or similar gripping portion to aid in removal from the opening of the housing. 
   Another illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure includes a housing defining a cavity and being configured for receipt of fluid. A holder having a first end and a second end is configured to receive an evacuated tube. The first end includes a port that establishes fluid communication between the evacuated tube and the cavity of the housing. The port includes a needle cannula configured for disposal within the evacuated tube. The housing defines a well portion disposed adjacent the port of the holder. A bottom wall of the housing is sloped downward to define the well portion. 
   A removable cap can be adapted to removably enclose an opening of the housing and provide a fluid seal with the housing. The removable cap can also include a plurality of snap arms adapted for engaging the housing. A base can be disposed with the housing and configured for support thereof. 
   In still another embodiment of the present disclosure, a fluid collection apparatus includes a housing defining a first chamber. The housing is configured for receipt of fluid and a bottom wall of the housing has a sloped configuration. A holder defines a second chamber configured to receive a collection device having a port. The first chamber is in fluid communication with the second chamber via a passageway. A removable cap is adapted to removably enclose an opening of the housing and an opening of the holder. 
   In a particular embodiment, the removable cap includes a first cover that encloses the opening of the housing and a second cover that encloses the opening of the holder. The first cover and the second cover can be hingedly connected, for example. In another particular embodiment, the housing and the holder are monolithically formed. 

   
     BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
     The objects and features of the present disclosure are set forth with particularity in the appended claims. The present disclosure, as to its organization and manner of operation, together with further objectives and advantages may be understood by reference to the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings, in which: 
       FIG. 1  is an enlarged side view, in part cross section, of one particular embodiment of a housing of a fluid collection apparatus, in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure; 
       FIG. 2  is a front plan view of the housing shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 3  is a side perspective view of the housing shown in  FIG. 1 ; 
       FIG. 4  is a side perspective view of the housing shown in  FIG. 3  and a holder of the fluid collection apparatus; 
       FIG. 5  is a side perspective view of the housing and the holder shown in  FIG. 4 , assembled, and an evacuation tube of the fluid collection apparatus; 
       FIG. 6  is a side perspective view of the assembled fluid collection apparatus shown in  FIG. 5  collecting fluid from an umbilical cord; 
       FIG. 7  is a side perspective view of the fluid collection apparatus shown in  FIG. 5  upon collection of fluid; 
       FIG. 8  is a front cross sectional view a the fluid collection apparatus having a support according to a particular embodiment of the present disclosure; 
       FIG. 9  is a front cross sectional view a the fluid collection apparatus having a support according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure; 
       FIG. 10  is a front cross sectional view of a fluid apparatus according to the present disclosure having housing extensions forming a support according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure; 
       FIG. 11A  is a front cross sectional view of a cap adapted to cover a housing according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; 
       FIG. 11B  is a partial front cross sectional view of an optional cap retention feature according to an illustrative embodiment of the present disclosure; 
       FIG. 12  is a front cross sectional view of a particular embodiment of a fluid collection apparatus according to the present disclosure having a cap with a tubular cavity disposed therein for receiving a fluid collection tube; 
       FIG. 13A  is a cross sectional plan view of a multi-chamber fluid collection apparatus according to the present disclosure; 
       FIG. 13B  is a front cross sectional view of a multi-chamber fluid collection apparatus according to the present disclosure; 
       FIG. 13C  is a front cross sectional view of a multi-chamber fluid collection apparatus according to the present disclosure having a fluid collection holder installed therein; and 
       FIG. 13D  is a front cross sectional view of a multi-chamber fluid collection apparatus according to the present disclosure having a cap installed therewith. 
   

   DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS 
   The exemplary embodiments of the fluid collection apparatus and methods of operation disclosed are discussed in terms of a fluid collecting device, and more particularly in terms of an umbilical cord blood collection apparatus that mates its constituent parts with a fluid collection holder that prevents hazardous exposure to blood and body fluids including, for example, inadvertent needle stick. It is contemplated that a housing of the fluid collection apparatus uses a needless mating connection to increase safety during use including storage, transport, fluid collection, subsequent thereto, etc. It is envisioned that the present disclosure, however, finds application to a wide variety of fluid collection procedures relating to analysis, sampling, diagnosis, treatment, etc. It is further envisioned that the present disclosure may be employed for collection of various body fluids including those relating to phlebotomy, digestive, intestinal, urinary, veterinary, etc. It is contemplated that the components of the fluid collection apparatus may be utilized with other medical application devices including phlebotomy devices, catheters, catheter introducers, guide wire introducers, and those employed during procedures relating to spinal and epidural, biopsy, aphaeresis, dialysis, etc. 
   In the discussion that follows, the term “proximal” refers to a portion of a structure that is closer to a practitioner, and the term “distal” refers to a portion that is further from the practitioner. As used herein, the term “subject” refers to a patient that has blood and/or fluid collected therefrom using a fluid collection apparatus. According to the present disclosure, the term practitioner refers to an individual performing fluid collection, installing, assembling or removing the fluid collection apparatus and may include support personnel. 
   The following discussion includes a description of the fluid collection apparatus, followed by a description of the method of operating the fluid collection apparatus in accordance with the present disclosure. Reference will now be made in detail to the exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, which are illustrated in the accompanying figures. 
   Turning now to the figures, wherein like components are designated by like reference numerals throughout the several views. Referring initially to  FIGS. 1 and 2 , there is illustrated a cylindrical housing  12  of an umbilical cord fluid collection apparatus  10  ( FIG. 5 ), constructed in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure. Fluid collection apparatus  10  is advantageously configured to prevent hazardous exposure to blood and body fluids by providing a needleless sealing engagement between housing  12  and the components of fluid collection apparatus  10 , as will be discussed. The design of fluid collection apparatus  10  provides improved reliability and reduces associated manufacturing costs. 
   Housing  12  is configured for receipt of a fluid, such as, for example, umbilical cord blood  13  ( FIG. 6 ) and defines a cavity  14  for receipt of at least a portion of an umbilical cord  16  ( FIG. 5 ). Cavity  14  is cylindrical, however, it is contemplated that the cavity may have other geometric configurations, such as, for example, rectangular, etc., according to the particular requirements of a medical application. Housing  12  has a first surface, such as, for example, a funnel  18 . Funnel  18  is configured to direct cord fluid accumulation toward a central section thereof and consequently in position for collection into an evacuated tube  28  ( FIG. 5 ). It is contemplated that gravity and/or a vacuum force from evacuated tube  28  cooperates with funnel  18  to draw fluid therethrough. It is envisioned that the first surface of housing  12  may have other orientations such as, for example, planar, etc. 
   Funnel  18  defines a first mating portion, such as, for example, a male luer connector  20  to facilitate a needless sealing engagement with a fluid collection holder  22 , as shown in  FIG. 4 , and discussed below. Holder  22  has first end  24  that longitudinally extends to a second end  26 . Holder  22  is substantially cylindrical and defines a tubular cavity  27 . Second end  26  is configured to receive evacuated tube  28  for disposal within cavity  27 . It is contemplated that cavity  27  may have various geometric cross-sections, such as, for example, circular, rectangular, etc. according to the requirements of a particular medical application. 
   First end  24  defines a second mating portion, such as, for example, a female luer connector  30  on outer surface  32  thereof. Female luer connector  30  engages male luer connector  20 , as will be discussed, to form a needleless seal and facilitate transfer of cord blood  13  to evacuated tube  28 . Female luer connector  30  is in fluid communication with an inner surface  34  of first end  24  which is in fluid communication with evacuated tube  28 . In an alternate embodiment, the first mating portion may define a female luer connector, similar to connector  30 , and the second mating portion may define a male luer connector, similar to connector  20 . 
   Male luer connector  20  sealingly engages female luer connector  30  to establish fluid communication between male luer connector  20  and evacuated tube  28  thereby facilitating cord blood collection from umbilical cord  16  for appropriate sampling, analysis, etc. The sealing engagement of male luer connector  20  and female luer connector  30 , in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure, advantageously prevents hazardous exposure to blood and body fluids by eliminating a needle seal and/or connection of housing  12  and the parts of fluid collection apparatus  10 . This structure reduces the number of needles employed to facilitate cord blood collection thereby increasing safety to practitioners and subjects. Further, the configuration of male luer connector  20  of housing  12  facilitates adaptability to pre-existing holders having female luer connectors. 
   Fluid collection apparatus  10  is contemplated for use in the medical field of body fluid collection. More particularly, fluid collection apparatus  10  is envisioned to be a disposable device for collecting umbilical cord fluids and having, among other things, safety features that include a needleless mating connection thereby preventing inadvertent needle sticking and hazardous exposure to blood and body fluids from practitioners and subjects, as well as uniform operation during a procedure. The above advantages, among others, realized from the present disclosure are attained through the disclosed fluid collection apparatus  10 , as discussed herein. The features of the present disclosure advantageously facilitate safe collection of body fluids. 
   Fluid collection apparatus  10  is integrally assembled of its component parts. Alternatively, portions of fluid collection apparatus  10  can be monolithically formed and assembled therewith. Component parts of fluid collection apparatus  10  can be fabricated from a material suitable for medical applications, for example, polymerics or metals, such as stainless steel, depending on the particular medical application and/or preference of a practitioner. Semi-rigid and rigid polymerics are contemplated for fabrication, as well as resilient materials, such as molded medical grade polypropylene. However, one skilled in the art will realize that other materials and fabrication methods suitable for assembly and manufacture, in accordance with the present disclosure, also would be appropriate. 
   Housing  12  defines a flange  36  disposed adjacent and about an opening  38  of cavity  14 . Flange  36  provides stability to housing  12  and facilitates manipulation thereof. It is contemplated that flange  36  may be variously disposed about housing  12 . It is further contemplated that housing  12  may not include a flange. Cavity  14  is defined by walls  40  of housing  12 . Cavity  14  has a reduced dimension and is appropriately sized to receive a portion of umbilical cord  16 . Consequently, housing  12  is smaller and easier to manipulate. It is contemplated that housing  12  may be dimensioned to support an entire umbilical cord and/or various portions thereof. Housing  12  corresponds to the configuration of cavity  14 , however, the outer surface of housing  12  may alternatively have geometric configurations, such as, for example, rectangular, elliptical, etc. 
   Funnel  18  tapers from walls  40  to male luer connector  20  to direct cord blood collected in cavity  14  to male luer connector  20 . Varying degrees of funnel taper may be employed according to the requirements of a particular fluid collection application and/or preference of a practitioner. 
   Male luer connector  20  extends a sufficient length from funnel  18  to mate with female luer connector  30  of holder  22  in a slip interference fit. The slip interference fit includes a frictional engagement that maintains connectors  20 ,  30  in a sealing engagement. Female luer connector  30  correspondingly has a receiving depth at least a sufficient dimension to facilitate the slip interference fit with male luer connector  26 . The slip interference fit provides a needleless sealing engagement that avoids the use of a needle and prevents hazardous exposure to cord blood. 
   Male luer connector has a tapered outer surface  44  that is configured to engage a tapered inner surface  46  of female luer connector  30 . As outer surface  44  is caused to engage inner surface  46 , sufficient friction is created therebetween to generate the slip interference fit and seal housing  12  with holder  22 . The sealing engagement facilitates transfer of cord blood to evacuated tube  28  while avoiding needlesticks, splattering, etc. It is contemplated that surfaces  44 ,  46  may have variously tapered configurations, including non-tapered, depending on the sealing strength, etc. requirements of a particular medical application. It is further contemplated that male luer connector  20  may sealingly engage female luer connector  30  in various types of sealing engagements, such as, threaded friction fits, gasket, etc. sufficient to form a seal which facilitates fluid communication between housing  12  and evacuated tube  28 . 
   Male luer connector  20  has an opening  42  that is appropriately dimensioned to facilitate passage of fluid therethrough and avoid blockage due to particles, etc. in the cord blood and fluid. It is envisioned that opening  42  may include screens, filters, etc. As shown in  FIG. 3 , a locking surface  48  extends from funnel  18  and is disposed circumferentially about male luer connector  20 . Locking surface  48 , including a threaded portion  50 , extends an adequate length to receive a correspondingly threaded flange  52  of female luer connector  30 . Flange  52  threads with portion  50  to releasably lock housing  12  with holder  22 . Locking surface  48  may alternatively comprise circumferential notches disposed along male luer connector  20  which engage corresponding ridges of female luer connector  30  in a locked engagement. Other locking surfaces are contemplated such as, clips, catches, etc. It is contemplated that the locking surfaces may be permanent. 
   Referring to  FIGS. 5 and 6 , first end  24  of holder  22  has an inner surface  34 . Inner surface  34  has a needle hub  54  supporting a needle cannula  56 . Needle cannula  56  extends away from male luer connector  20  for appropriate puncture of a rubber stopper  58  of evacuated tube  28 . Needle hub  54  and needle cannula  56  are in fluid communication with female luer connector  30 . Needle cannula  56  engages rubber stopper  58  to establish fluid communication between male luer connector  20  and evacuated tube  28 . 
   Needle cannula  56  punctures rubber stopper  58  such that the tip of needle cannula  56  is disposed in the evacuated space of tube  28 . As needle cannula  56  communicates atmospheric pressure to the evacuated space of tube  28  via the fluid communication between housing  12  and evacuated tube  28 , cord blood  13  disposed in funnel  18  is drawn through male luer connector  20 , female luer connector  30 , needle hub  54  and needle cannula  56  into tube  28 . Cord blood  13  is drawn through this fluid flow path as pressure within tube  28  stabilizes to atmospheric pressure and the vacuum draws fluid therein. This fluid collection process is continued until tube  28  is filled or a desired amount of cord blood  13  is collected. Tube  28  is removed from needle cannula  56 . 
   In use, fluid collection apparatus  10  and its component parts, similar to that described, is properly sterilized and otherwise prepared for storage, shipment and use. Referring to  FIGS. 4-7 , a practitioner prepares the necessary instruments, including fluid collection apparatus  10  for collecting blood from an umbilical cord of a newborn. It is envisioned that component parts of fluid collection apparatus  10  employed, such as, for example, holder  22 , as described, may include pre-existing medical equipment for which housing  12  is easily adapted for use. 
   As shown in  FIGS. 4 and 5 , male luer connector  20  is mated to female luer connector  30  such that a non-puncturing sealing engagement is formed therebetween. Consequently, a seal is formed between housing  12  and holder  22 . Flange  52  threads with locking surface  48  to lock housing  12  with holder  22 . A length of umbilical cord  16 , which includes arteries, veins, etc. is clamped with surgical clamps (not shown) or the like. The length of umbilical cord  16  should be adequate for sampling, such as, for example, 8-30 centimeters. 
   As shown in  FIG. 6 , an end  60  of the length of umbilical cord  16  is placed in housing  12 . It is not required that the entire length of umbilical cord  16  be disposed within cavity  14  of housing  12 . Cord blood  13  is caused to flow into cavity  14  and pool in funnel  16 . Cord blood  13 , due to the fluid flow path communicating between housing  12  and female luer connector  30 , and gravity, flows to needle hub  54  and needle cannula  56 . 
   Evacuated tube  28  is inserted within cavity  27  of holder  22  to establish fluid communication between female luer connector  30  and evacuated tube  28  for collecting cord blood  13  via second end  26 . Rubber stopper  58  is driven into cavity  27  such that needle cannula  56  punctures rubber stopper  58 . Needle cannula  56  is disposed in the evacuated space of tube  28 . As discussed, cord blood  13  is drawn into the evacuated space of tube  28 . The collection of cord blood  13  is facilitated by the fluid communication established via the needless sealing engagement of male luer connector  20  and female luer connector  30 . 
   Housing  12  is drained of the remaining cord blood  13 , filling of tube  28  and/or acquisition of a sufficient sample. Tube  28  is removed from needle cannula  56  to discontinue cord blood collection, as shown in  FIG. 7 . The components of fluid collection apparatus  10  may be disposed and the cord blood sample may be analyzed, etc. 
   In an alternate embodiment, as shown in  FIGS. 8-10 , housing  12  is maintained in an upright orientation by a base  66  that is disposed with housing  12  and configured for support thereof. Base  66  can be assembled with housing  12  or integrally formed therewith. Referring to  FIG. 8  base  66  is adapted to fit around the body of housing  12  and holds housing  12  upright by supporting flange portions  67  that extend radially from housing top edge  70 . In an illustrative embodiment, support top edge  72  defines a top opening  74  adapted for accepting the body of housing  12 . Bottom edge  76  of base  66  provides a level support for standing housing  12  on a surface, such as, for example, a tabletop, work surface, etc. 
   Base  66  is configured to enclose holder  22  and has a height sufficient to support housing  12  and holder  22  installed therewith. Alternatively, a base may be provided with sufficient height to support housing  12 , holder  22  and an evacuated tube (not shown) installed in holder  22  above a flat surface. It is envisioned that base  66  can be embodied as a hollow cylinder having a top opening diameter greater than housing  12  outside diameter but less than the radial extension of flange portions  67 . The hollow cylinder can have a circular cross section or it may be formed as a rectangular cylinder, truncated cone or any such structure having a top opening capable of accepting housing  12  and holder  22  together and supporting them in an upright orientation. It is further envisioned that base  66  may include other configurations, such as, for example, solid portions, side wall openings, columns, etc. 
   Base  66  may be formed from a suitable inexpensive manufacturing material, such as, for example polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, PVC or the like. Base  66  may be fabricated using a number of alternative common manufacturing process. For example, it is envisioned that a cylindrical base  66  can be inexpensively manufactured using an extrusion process or alternatively may be injection molded. An injection molded base  66  may also include a sidewall having a number of cut-outs (not shown) to reduce material usage, provided sufficient structural integrity is maintained to support a blood filled housing and holder with an evacuated tube installed therein, for example. 
   Base  66  may be designed with an inside diameter or cross sectional shape adapted to match the outside diameter or cross sectional shape of housing for a press-fit therewith. A press-fit base  66  can eliminate the need for a flange or similar support features on housing  12  against which to abut support top edge  72 . Alternatively, attachment structure may be provided on the inside surface of base  66  and/or outside surface of housing  12  to secure housing  12  within base  66 . For example, threads, snap arms, annular grove/ring features and the like can be provided on adjacent surfaces of housing  12  and base  66  for attaching one to the other. In another alternative embodiment, an adhesive material or epoxy may be used to secure base  66  to housing  12 . 
   In another embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 9 , a base  80 , similar to that described above, is provided to support housing  12  in an upright orientation. Base  80  is adapted to fit around bottom portion  83  of housing  12  and holds housing  12  upright by supporting housing bottom edge  82  on step  86 . Base  80  includes a top edge  85  that defines a top opening adapted for accepting the body of housing  12 . Bottom edge  90  of base  80  provides a level support base for standing base  80  on a flat surface. 
   Base  80  includes an inside surface having at least one rib  88  extending inward therefrom. Rib  88  extends from bottom edge  90  along a partial height of base  80  and terminates at a height defining a step  86  for supporting housing  12 . Step  86  can be horizontal or angled to match an inclined bottom surface of housing  12 , for example. 
   Base  80  has a height sufficient to support housing  12  and holder  22  installed therewith. Alternatively, base  80  may be provided with sufficient height to support housing  12 , holder  22  and an evacuated tube (not shown) installed in holder  22  above a flat surface. It is envisioned that base  80  has a circular cross section or it may be formed as a rectangular cylinder, truncated cone or any such structure having a top opening capable of accepting bottom portion  83  of housing  12  and holder  22  together and supporting housing  12  and holder  22  in an upright orientation. 
   Alternatively, base  80  may be designed with an inside diameter or cross sectional shape adapted to match the outside diameter or cross sectional shape of bottom portion  83  of housing  12  for a press-fit therewith. A press-fit base  80  can eliminate the need for ribs having a step or similar support features. Attachment structure, adhesive, etc. may be provided to secure housing  12  within base  80 . 
   In another alternate embodiment, as shown in  FIG. 10 , the base, similar to that described, includes a wall extension  92  that extends from bottom portion  83  of housing  12 . Bottom edge  94  of wall extension  92  provides a level support base for standing housing  12  on a flat surface. 
   Wall extension  92  has a height sufficient to support housing  12  and holder  22  installed therewith. Alternatively, a wall extension  92  may be provided with sufficient height to support housing  12 , holder  22  and an evacuated tube (not shown) installed in holder  22  above a flat surface. Wall extensions  92  are separated by a pluraltiy of cut-outs  98 . Cut-outs  98  may have alternative configurations and dimensions according to the particular strength and material usage requirements for a particular application. The base may include one or a plurality of cut-outs  98 . 
   The fluid collection apparatus according to the present disclosure may also include a removable cap  100  adapted to cover the top opening of housing  12  and provide a fluid seal with the top portion of housing  12 . Referring to  FIG. 11A , a removable cap  100  includes a sealing portion  104  capable of fitting against the housing  12  to provide a fluid seal therebetween. In the illustrative embodiment, the diameter of sealing portion  104  corresponds to inside diameter of housing  12  to provide a press fit therebetween. Sealing portion  104  can optionally include an elastomeric o-ring or the like to provide a more robust fluid seal. Attachment of removable cap  100  to housing  12  can alternatively be provided by mating threads in cap and housing, snap arms, annular ring/groove or bump feature  106  ( FIG. 11B ) with a corresponding recess (not shown) in housing  12  or the like. A gripping portion such as finger grip  102  can be provided to facilitate easy removal of cap  100  from housing  12 . Cap  100  can be formed as a separate component or can be monolithically formed with housing  12 , for example, using at least one living hinge. 
   In another embodiment of the fluid collection apparatus, a holder  114 , similar to that described, includes a removable cap  106 , similar to that described above, as shown in  FIG. 12 . Cap  106  is provided to cover housing  12  and provide a fluid seal therebetween. Holder  114  includes an orifice  108  adapted for mounting a cannula  56 . A cannula  56  extends from orifice  108  toward the outside of housing  12  when cap  106  is installed on housing  12 . Cannula  56  is in fluid communication through orifice  108  with a tube  110  having a port  112  opening inside housing  12  when cap  106  is installed to housing  12 . Tube  110  extends toward the bottom of housing  12  to submerge port  112  in fluid collected therein. 
   Holder  114  is adapted to receive an evacuated fluid collection tube  130 . Sidewall  116  of holder  114  extends into the cavity defined by housing  12  forming a cylinder having an open top and a bottom wall  118 . Orifice  108  is disposed through bottom wall  118  such that cannula  56  extends into the tubular cavity defined by holder  114 . Tube  110  extends from bottom wall  118  into the cavity defined by housing  12 . 
   Housing  12  has a tapered bottom surface  120  defining a well portion  122  for collecting fluid. Port  112  is disposed in well portion  122  for improved fluid collection. Housing  12  can also include sidewall extensions  124  extending below tapered bottom walls such that housing is capable of being stood upright on a flat surface. Alternatively, a separate support  66  ( FIG. 8 ) or base  80  ( FIG. 9 ) can be used to support housing  12  on a flat surface. 
   Cannula  56  and tube  110  are optionally provided as a prefabricated sub-assembly such as cannula  56  and hub  54  assembly used in fluid collection holder described hereinbefore ( FIGS. 4-7 ). Orifice  108  is dimensioned to provide an interference fit with hub  54  whereby hub supports cannula  56  and tube  110  therein. Cannula  56  can optionally include a rubber valve disposed thereon as known in the art. 
   Cap  106  covers top opening of housing  12  and provides a fluid seal with the top portion of housing  12 . A sealing portion  104  capable of fitting against the housing  12  provides a fluid seal therebetween. In the illustrative embodiment, the diameter of sealing portion  104  corresponds to inside diameter of housing  12  to provide a press fit therebetween. 
   An optional re-sealable fluid vent (not shown) can be provided in cap  108  or housing  12  to facilitate aspiration of fluid into an evacuated tube by allowing air under atmospheric pressure into housing. 
   To operate the illustrative embodiment shown in  FIG. 12 , a cap  106  is first removed if one is installed to housing, for example, for shipping and packaging purposes. A fluid sample, such as an umbilical cord section having blood draining therefrom is placed in the cavity of housing  12 . Cap  106  is then installed to housing  12  such that port  108  is immersed in fluid to be collected. An evacuated tube  130  having a rubber stopper  132  is placed over cannula  56  and pushed down onto cannula  56  such that cannula  56  punctures rubber stopper  132  and provides a fluid passageway from the cavity of housing  12  into the evacuated fluid collection tube  130 . Vacuum pressure in evacuated tube  130  causes fluid to flow upward through port  112 , tube  110 , cannula  56  and into evacuated tube  130 . When a sufficient fluid sample is collected into fluid collection tube  130 , fluid collection tube  130  is removed from cannula  56 . In at least one embodiment, rubber valve (not shown) self-seals around needle cannula  56  and rubber stopper  132  self-seals collection tube  130 . 
   The cavity formed by sidewall  116  is deep enough to contain the entire length of cannula  56  to thereby protect users from accidental needle-stick injuries. In a particular embodiment, a closable fluid vent (not shown) is also provided in cap  106  and/or housing  12 . In operation the closable vent is opened to allow air to flow into cavity of housing  12  under atmospheric pressure while a collection tube  130  is installed on cannula  56  to aid aspiration of fluid into evacuated tube. 
   Clinicians are thereby provided with a method and apparatus to efficiently and safely collect fluid samples such as umbilical cord blood while maintaining collected fluid, waste fluid and tissue in safely sealed containers. The fluid collection apparatus according to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 12  also provides protection from exposure to needle stick hazards. 
   Turning now to  FIGS. 13A-13D , another embodiment of the present disclosure provides a fluid collection apparatus having a housing  138  that defines chambers  140 ,  142  and a passageway  144  therebetween. A housing, such as, for example, first chamber  140  is adapted for receiving a fluid sample such as an umbilical cord section having blood draining therefrom, and a holder, such as, for example, second chamber  142  is adapted for collecting fluid therefrom. A sloped bottom surface  146  directs fluid from first chamber  140  to second chamber  142  through passageway  144 . Housing  138  includes an extension  145  defining a base portion having a bottom edge  147  adapted for standing on a surface. Housing  138  may include one or a plurality of chambers. 
   Housing  138  includes a sidewall  139  and bottom surface  146  that define a cavity with first and second chambers  140 ,  142 . Second chamber  142  is adapted to receive a collection tube holder  150 . Collection tube holder  150  has a body portion  152  defining a tubular cavity  154  for receiving an evacuated tube. Tubular cavity  154  has a top opening  156  and a bottom wall  158  with a hub  160  extending through bottom wall  158 . A port  164  extends from hub  160  into second chamber  142 . A cannula  162  extends from hub  160  toward top opening  156 . Cannula  162  is in fluid communication with port  164 . Cannula  162  optionally includes a rubber valve providing a fluid seal between cannula  162  and hub  160 . 
   A removable cap  170  is adapted to cover first and second chamber  140 ,  142  to prevent fluid leakage therefrom ( FIG. 13D ). Cap  170  includes a first chamber cover  172 , a second chamber cover  174  and a hinge  176  therebetween such that first chamber cover  172  and second chamber cover  174  can be opened and closed independently of each other. Cap  170  includes at least one finger grip  178  extending from the first and/or second chamber cover  172 ,  174 . A cap extension  180  extends into and seals a slot that forms passageway  144 . Cap  170  can be made from rubber or suitable plastic or elastomeric material as known in the art, such as for example, polypropylene, nylon, polyethylene or the like. It is envisioned that cap  170  can be formed as a separate component or can be formed monolithically with housing  138  using at least one living hinge therebetween, for example. 
   In operation, the apparatus shown in  FIGS. 13A-13D  to collect umbilical cord blood is used by first placing a section of umbilical cord into first chamber  140 . Collection tube holder can be installed in second chamber  142  before or after fluid is allowed to drain into second chamber. When fluid has drained into second chamber  142 , port  164  of collection tube holder  150  extends into a pool of fluid. An evacuated tube  190  ( FIG. 13C ) having a rubber stopper  192  is placed over cannula  162  and pushed down onto cannula  162  to puncture rubber stopper  192  and provides a fluid passageway from second chamber  140  into the evacuated fluid collection tube  190 . Vacuum pressure in evacuated tube  190  causes fluid to flow upward through port  164  and cannula  162  and into evacuated tube  190 . When a sufficient fluid sample is collected into fluid collection tube  190 , fluid collection tube  190  is removed from cannula  162 . A rubber valve (not shown) may self seal around needle cannula  162  and rubber stopper  132  may self seal collection tube  130 . 
   Clinicians using the embodiment shown in  FIGS. 13A-13D  are thereby provided with an alternative method and apparatus according to the present disclosure for efficiently and safely collecting fluid samples such as umbilical cord blood while maintaining collected fluid, waste fluid and tissue in safely sealed containers which also provide protection from exposure to needle stick hazards. 
   Although various embodiments of the present disclosure are described in terms of a two chamber apparatus, persons having ordinary skill in the art should appreciate that any number of chambers may be combined to provide a multi-chamber fluid collection apparatus according to the present disclosure. 
   It will be understood that various modifications may be made to the embodiments disclosed herein. Therefore, the above description should not be construed as limiting but merely as exemplification of preferred embodiments. Those skilled in the art will envision other modifications within the scope and spirit of the claims appended hereto.