Patent Publication Number: US-2021161446-A1

Title: Biological Fluid Collection System

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
     The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/658,737 entitled “Biological Fluid Collection System”, filed Apr. 17, 2018, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     1. Field of the Disclosure 
     The present disclosure relates generally to a biological fluid collection system. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a power source for a collection module for collecting a small sample of blood and dispensing a portion of the sample into a device for analyzing the sample such as a point-of-care or a near-patient-testing device. 
     2. Description of the Related Art 
     A need exists for a device which enables collection of a micro-sample, such as less than 500 microliters of collected sample for analysis, for patient point-of-care applications. Current devices require conventional sample collection and the subsequent use of a 1 ml syringe or pipette to transfer a small blood sample to a point-of-care cartridge or instrument receiving port. Such an open system approach results in an increased blood exposure risk for personnel performing the testing, as well as the collection of excess specimen required for a specified test procedure. 
     It is therefore desirable to have a blood sample collection and dispensing tool for point-of-care applications which incorporates conventional automatic blood draw and includes a novel controlled sample dispensing capability while minimizing exposure risk. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present disclosure provides a biological fluid collection system that includes a power source for a collection module that receives a sample and provides flow-through blood stabilization technology and a precise sample dispensing function for point-of-care and near patient testing applications. 
     In accordance with an embodiment of the present invention, a biological fluid collection system includes a collection module adapted to receive a sample, the collection module comprising a housing having an inlet port and an outlet port, the inlet port and the outlet port in fluid communication; a mixing chamber disposed between the inlet port and the outlet port; and a collection chamber disposed between the mixing chamber and the outlet port, the collection chamber including an actuation portion, wherein the actuation portion is transitionable between a first position in which the sample is containable within the collection chamber and a second position in which a portion of the sample is expelled from the collection chamber; and a power source removably connectable with the collection module, the power source creates a vacuum that draws the sample within the collection chamber, the power source comprising a barrel in communication with the collection chamber, the barrel defining an interior and having a first end, a second end, and a sidewall therebetween; a piston slidably disposed within the interior of the barrel, the piston sized relative to the interior to provide sealing engagement with the sidewall of the barrel, the piston transitionable between a first piston position, in which the piston is a first distance from the first end of the barrel, and a second piston position, in which the piston is a second distance from the first end of the barrel, the second distance greater than the first distance; and a spring disposed between the first end of the barrel and the piston. 
     In one configuration, the power source includes an activation button disposed on a portion of the barrel; and a lock in communication with the spring and the activation button, the lock transitionable between a locked position, in which the lock locks the piston in the first piston position and maintains the spring in a compressed position, and an unlocked position, in which the piston is unlocked and the spring is permitted to drive the piston to the second piston position thereby creating a vacuum that draws the sample within the collection chamber, wherein actuation of the activation button moves the lock to the unlocked position. In another configuration, the barrel is removably connectable with a portion of the collection module. In yet another configuration, the collection module includes a sample stabilizer disposed between the inlet port and the mixing chamber; and a cap having a venting plug, the cap seals the outlet port, wherein the venting plug allows air to pass therethrough and prevents the sample from passing therethrough. In one configuration, the biological fluid collection system includes a material including pores disposed between the inlet port and the mixing chamber; and a dry anticoagulant powder within the pores of the material. In another configuration, the sample dissolves and mixes with the dry anticoagulant powder while passing through the material. In yet another configuration, the material is an open cell foam. In one configuration, the sample stabilizer is the dry anticoagulant powder. In another configuration, the biological fluid collection system includes a closure covering the inlet port. In yet another configuration, the sample is a blood sample. 
     In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a biological fluid collection system includes a collection module adapted to receive a sample, the collection module comprising a housing having an inlet port and an outlet port, the inlet port and the outlet port in fluid communication; a mixing chamber disposed between the inlet port and the outlet port; and a collection chamber disposed between the mixing chamber and the outlet port, the collection chamber including an actuation portion, wherein the actuation portion is transitionable between a first position in which the sample is containable within the collection chamber and a second position in which a portion of the sample is expelled from the collection chamber; and a power source removably connectable with the collection module, the power source having a vacuum that draws the sample within the collection chamber, the power source comprising a spike in communication with the collection chamber; an evacuated tube having a first tube end, a second tube end, and a sidewall extending therebetween and defining a tube interior, the evacuated tube containing the vacuum; and a closure sealing the first tube end, wherein, with the evacuated tube engaged with the spike such that a portion of the spike pierces the closure and enters the tube interior, the vacuum of the evacuated tube draws the sample within the collection chamber. 
     In one configuration, the power source includes a tube holder removably connectable with a portion of the collection module, the tube holder defining an interior and having a first end, a second end, and a tube holder sidewall therebetween. In another configuration, the evacuated tube is movably disposed within the interior of the tube holder between a first tube position, in which the evacuated tube is disengaged from the spike, and a second tube position, in which the closure of the evacuated tube is pierced by the spike. In yet another configuration, with the evacuated tube in the first tube position, a portion of the second tube end is exposed from the second end of the tube holder and the second tube end can be pushed to move the evacuated tube to the second tube position. In one configuration, the second tube end comprises an arcuate surface. In another configuration, the collection module includes a sample stabilizer disposed between the inlet port and the mixing chamber; and a cap having a venting plug, the cap seals the outlet port, wherein the venting plug allows air to pass therethrough and prevents the sample from passing therethrough. In yet another configuration, the biological fluid collection system includes a material including pores disposed between the inlet port and the mixing chamber; and a dry anticoagulant powder within the pores of the material. In one configuration, the sample dissolves and mixes with the dry anticoagulant powder while passing through the material. In another configuration, the material is an open cell foam. In yet another configuration, the sample stabilizer is the dry anticoagulant powder. In one configuration, the biological fluid collection system includes a collection module closure covering the inlet port. In another configuration, the sample is a blood sample. 
     In accordance with another embodiment of the present invention, a biological fluid collection system includes a collection module adapted to receive a sample, the collection module comprising a housing having an inlet port and an outlet port, the inlet port and the outlet port in fluid communication; a mixing chamber disposed between the inlet port and the outlet port; and a collection chamber disposed between the mixing chamber and the outlet port, the collection chamber including an actuation portion, wherein the actuation portion is transitionable between a first position in which the sample is containable within the collection chamber and a second position in which a portion of the sample is expelled from the collection chamber; and a power source removably connectable with the collection module, the power source creates a vacuum that draws the sample within the collection chamber, the power source comprising a barrel in communication with the collection chamber, the barrel defining an interior and having a first end, a second end, and a sidewall therebetween; a stopper slidably disposed within the interior of the barrel, the stopper sized relative to the interior to provide sealing engagement with the sidewall of the barrel, the stopper transitionable between a first stopper position, in which the stopper is a first distance from the first end of the barrel, and a second stopper position, in which the stopper is a second distance from the first end of the barrel, the second distance greater than the first distance; and a plunger having a first plunger end and a second plunger end, a portion of the first plunger end engaged with the stopper, wherein movement of the plunger away from the first end of the barrel moves the stopper to the second stopper position thereby creating a vacuum that draws the sample within the collection chamber. 
     In one configuration, the barrel is removably connectable with a portion of the collection module. In another configuration, the collection module includes a sample stabilizer disposed between the inlet port and the mixing chamber; and a cap having a venting plug, the cap seals the outlet port, wherein the venting plug allows air to pass therethrough and prevents the sample from passing therethrough. In yet another configuration, the biological fluid collection system includes a material including pores disposed between the inlet port and the mixing chamber; and a dry anticoagulant powder within the pores of the material. In one configuration, the sample dissolves and mixes with the dry anticoagulant powder while passing through the material. In another configuration, the material is an open cell foam. In yet another configuration, the sample stabilizer is the dry anticoagulant powder. In one configuration, the biological fluid collection system includes a closure covering the inlet port. In another configuration, the sample is a blood sample. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       The above-mentioned and other features and advantages of this disclosure, and the manner of attaining them, will become more apparent and the disclosure itself will be better understood by reference to the following descriptions of embodiments of the disclosure taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein: 
         FIG. 1  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a biological fluid collection system with a lock in a locked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 2  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a biological fluid collection system with a lock in an unlocked position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 3  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a biological fluid collection system with a collection module disconnected from a power source in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4A  is a perspective view of a power source in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 4B  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a power source in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5A  is a perspective view of a biological fluid collection system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5B  is an exploded view of a biological fluid collection system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5C  is a side elevation view of a biological fluid collection system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5D  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  5 D- 5 D of  FIG. 5C  in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5E  is a side elevation view of a biological fluid collection system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5F  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  5 F- 5 F of  FIG. 5E  in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6A  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a power source with a lock in a locked position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6B  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a power source with a lock in an unlocked position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 6C  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a power source with a lock in an unlocked position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7A  is a perspective view of a biological fluid collection system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7B  is a cross-sectional, exploded view of a biological fluid collection system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7C  is a side elevation view of a biological fluid collection system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7D  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  7 D- 7 D of  FIG. 7C  with a lock in a locked position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 7E  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a power source with a lock in an unlocked position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8A  is a perspective view of a biological fluid collection system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8B  is a perspective, exploded view of a biological fluid collection system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8D  is a side elevation view of a biological fluid collection system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 8E  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  8 E- 8 E of  FIG. 8D  in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 9  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a biological fluid collection system with an evacuated tube in a first tube position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 10  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a biological fluid collection system with an evacuated tube in a second tube position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a biological fluid collection system with a collection module disconnected from a power source in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12A  is a perspective view of a biological fluid collection system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12B  is an exploded view of a biological fluid collection system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12C  is a side elevation view of a biological fluid collection system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12D  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  12 D- 12 D of  FIG. 12C  with an evacuated tube in a second tube position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 12E  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a power source with an evacuated tube in a first tube position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 13A  is a perspective view of a power source in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 13B  is a perspective, exploded view of a power source in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 14A  is a perspective view of a biological fluid collection system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 14B  is a side elevation view of a biological fluid collection system in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 14C  is a cross-sectional view taken along line  14 C- 14 C of  FIG. 14B  in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 15  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a biological fluid collection system with a stopper in a first stopper position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 16  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a biological fluid collection system with a stopper in a second stopper position in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 17  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a collection module in accordance with another embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 18  is a cross-sectional perspective view of a collection module with a deformable portion in an initial position adjacent a point-of-care testing device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 19  is a cross-sectional perspective view of a collection module with a deformable portion in a deformed position adjacent a point-of-care testing device in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 20  is a perspective view of an open cell foam material in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 21  is a microscopic view of the microstructure of an open cell foam material having a dry anticoagulant powder distributed throughout its microstructure in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 22  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a collection module with a cap in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 23  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a collection module with a deformable portion in an initial position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 24  is a cross-sectional side elevation view of a collection module with a deformable portion in a deformed position in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 25  is a perspective view of a collection module in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 26  is a perspective view of a cap being removed from a collection module in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 27  is a perspective view of a biological fluid collection system inserted into a tube holder in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 28  is a cross-sectional view of a biological fluid collection system inserted into a tube holder in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 29  is a perspective view of a biological fluid collection system being removed from a tube holder in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. 
     
    
    
     Corresponding reference characters indicate corresponding parts throughout the several views. The exemplifications set out herein illustrate exemplary embodiments of the disclosure, and such exemplifications are not to be construed as limiting the scope of the disclosure in any manner. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     The following description is provided to enable those skilled in the art to make and use the described embodiments contemplated for carrying out the invention. Various modifications, equivalents, variations, and alternatives, however, will remain readily apparent to those skilled in the art. Any and all such modifications, variations, equivalents, and alternatives are intended to fall within the spirit and scope of the present invention. 
     For purposes of the description hereinafter, the terms “upper”, “lower”, “right”, “left”, “vertical”, “horizontal”, “top”, “bottom”, “lateral”, “longitudinal”, and derivatives thereof shall relate to the invention as it is oriented in the drawing figures. However, it is to be understood that the invention may assume various alternative variations, except where expressly specified to the contrary. It is also to be understood that the specific devices illustrated in the attached drawings, and described in the following specification, are simply exemplary embodiments of the invention. Hence, specific dimensions and other physical characteristics related to the embodiments disclosed herein are not to be considered as limiting. 
     The present disclosure provides a biological fluid collection system that includes a power source for a collection module that receives a sample and provides flow-through blood stabilization technology and a precise sample dispensing function for point-of-care and near patient testing applications. A collection module of the present disclosure is able to effectuate distributed mixing of a sample stabilizer within a blood sample and dispense the stabilized sample in a controlled manner. In this manner, a biological fluid collection system of the present disclosure enables blood micro-sample management, e.g., passive mixing with a sample stabilizer and controlled dispensing, for point-of-care and near patient testing applications. 
     Advantageously, a biological fluid collection system of the present disclosure provides a consistent blood sample management tool for point-of-care and near patient testing applications, automatic blood draw, passive mixing technology, and controlled small sample dispensing capability to point-of-care cartridge and standard luer interfaces with near patient testing receiving ports. 
       FIGS. 1-29  illustrate exemplary embodiments of a biological fluid collection system  10  of the present disclosure that is adapted to receive a biological fluid sample, such as a blood sample  12 . In one embodiment, the biological fluid collection system  10  of the present disclosure includes a collection module  14  that is adapted to receive a blood sample  12  and a power source  16  that is removably connectable with the collection module  14 . A power source of the present disclosure provides a user activated vacuum source for drawing a biological fluid sample within a collection module  14 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-3, 9-11, 15-19, and 22-29 , in one embodiment, the collection module  14  of the present disclosure is adapted to receive a biological fluid sample, such as a blood sample  12 , and includes a housing  20 , a mixing chamber  22 , a sample stabilizer  24 , a collection chamber  26 , a closure  28 , and a cap  30 . 
     In one embodiment, the housing  20  of the collection module  14  includes an inlet port  32  and an outlet port  34 . The inlet port  32  and the outlet port  34  are in fluid communication via a passageway  36  extending therebetween. 
     The mixing chamber  22  and the collection chamber  26  are provided in fluid communication with the passageway  36 . The mixing chamber  22  and the collection chamber  26  are positioned such that a biological fluid sample, such as a blood sample  12 , introduced into the inlet port  32  of the collection module  14  will first pass through a sample stabilizer  24 , then the blood sample  12  and the sample stabilizer  24  pass through the mixing chamber  22 , and subsequently the sample  12  with the sample stabilizer  24  properly mixed therein flow into the collection chamber  26 , prior to reaching the outlet port  34  of the collection module  14 . In this way, the blood sample  12  may be mixed with a sample stabilizer  24 , such as an anticoagulant or other additive, provided within the collection module  14 , before passing through the mixing chamber  22  for proper mixing of the sample stabilizer  24  within the blood sample  12 , and then the stabilized sample is received and stored within the collection chamber  26 . 
     In one embodiment, a sample stabilizer  24  is disposed between the inlet port  32  and the mixing chamber  22 . The collection module  14  of the present disclosure provides passive and fast mixing of a blood sample  12  with the sample stabilizer  24 . For example, the collection module  14  includes a mixing chamber  22  that allows for passive mixing of the blood sample  12  with an anticoagulant or another additive, such as a blood stabilizer, as the blood sample  12  flows through the mixing chamber  22 . 
     The sample stabilizer can be an anticoagulant, or a substance designed to preserve a specific element within the blood such as, for example, RNA, protein analyte, or other element. In one embodiment, the sample stabilizer  24  is disposed between the inlet port  32  and the mixing chamber  22 . In other embodiments, the sample stabilizer  24  may be disposed in other areas within the housing  20  of the collection module  14 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 20-23 , in one embodiment, the collection module  14  includes a material  40  including pores  42  that is disposed between the inlet port  32  and the mixing chamber  22  and a dry anticoagulant powder  44  that is within the pores  42  of the material  40 . In this manner, the collection module  14  may include a dry anticoagulant, such as Heparin or EDTA, deposited on or within a portion of the collection module  14 . In one embodiment, the material  40  is an open cell foam that contains dry anticoagulant dispersed within the cells of the open cell foam to promote the effectiveness of the flow-through mixing and anticoagulant uptake. In one embodiment, the sample stabilizer  24  is the dry anticoagulant powder  44 . 
     In one embodiment, the open cell foam may be treated with an anticoagulant to form a dry anticoagulant powder finely distributed throughout the pores of the open cell foam. As the blood sample  12  enters the collection module  14 , the blood sample  12  passes through the open cell foam and is exposed to the anticoagulant powder available throughout the internal pore structure of the open cell foam. In this manner, the sample  12  dissolves and mixes with the dry anticoagulant powder  44  while passing through the material  40  or open cell foam. 
     The open cell foam may be a soft deformable open cell foam that is inert to blood, for example, a melamine foam, such as Basotect® foam commercially available from BASF, or may consist of a formaldehyde-melamine-sodium bisulfite copolymer. The open cell foam may also be a flexible, hydrophilic open cell foam that is substantially resistant to heat and organic solvents. In one embodiment, the foam may include a sponge material. 
     The anticoagulant or other additive may be introduced into the open cell foam by soaking the foam in a liquid solution of the additive and water and subsequently evaporating the water forming a dry additive powder finely distributed throughout the internal structure of the foam. 
     The collection module  14  includes a mixing chamber  22  that allows for passive mixing of the blood sample  12  with an anticoagulant or another additive, such as a blood stabilizer, as the blood sample  12  flows through the mixing chamber  22 . In one embodiment, the mixing chamber  22  is disposed between the inlet port  32  and the outlet port  34 . 
     The internal portion of the mixing chamber  22  may have any suitable structure or form as long as it provides for the mixing of the blood sample  12  with an anticoagulant or another additive as the blood sample  12  passes through the passageway  36  of the collection module  14 . Referring to  FIG. 24 , in one embodiment, the mixing chamber  22  includes a first curved wall  50  having a first inlet end  52  and a first exit end  54 , and a second curved wall  56  having a second inlet end  58  and a second exit end  60 . The first inlet end  52  is spaced a first distance D 1  from the second inlet end  58  and the first exit end  54  is spaced a second distance D 2  from the second exit end  60 . In one embodiment, the second distance D 2  is less than the first distance D 1 . 
     The mixing chamber  22  receives the sample  12  and the sample stabilizer  24  therein and effectuates distributed mixing of the sample stabilizer  24  within the sample  12 . The mixing chamber  22  effectuates distributed mixing of the sample stabilizer  24  within the sample  12  and prevents a very high sample stabilizer concentration in any portion of the blood sample  12 . This prevents underdosing of the sample stabilizer  24  in any portion of the blood sample  12 . The mixing chamber  22  effectuates distributed mixing of the sample stabilizer  24  within the sample  12  so that an approximately equal amount and/or concentration of the sample stabilizer  24  is dissolved throughout the blood sample  12 , e.g., an approximately equal amount and/or concentration of the sample stabilizer  24  is dissolved into the blood sample  12  from a front portion of the blood sample  12  to a rear portion of the blood sample  12 . 
     In one embodiment, the collection module  14  includes a collection chamber  26  that is disposed between the mixing chamber  22  and the outlet port  34 . The collection chamber  26  includes an actuation portion  61 . In one embodiment, the actuation portion  61  is transitionable between a first position ( FIGS. 18, 22, and 23 ) in which the sample  12  is containable within the collection chamber  26  and a second position ( FIGS. 19 and 24 ) in which a portion of the sample  12  is expelled from the collection chamber  26 . 
     In one embodiment, the actuation portion  61  of the collection chamber  26  includes a first deformable portion  62 , a second deformable portion  64 , and a rigid wall portion  66  ( FIGS. 25 and 26 ) that is between the first deformable portion  62  and the second deformable portion  64 . In one embodiment, the first deformable portion  62  is located on a first side  70  of the collection chamber  26  and the second deformable portion  64  is located on a second side  72  of the collection chamber  26 . In one embodiment, the second side  72  of the collection chamber  26  is opposite from the first side  70  of the collection chamber  26 . 
     In one embodiment, the first deformable portion  62  and the second deformable portion  64  are transitionable between an initial position ( FIGS. 18, 22, and 23 ) in which the sample  12  is contained within the collection chamber  26  and a deformed position ( FIGS. 19 and 24 ) in which a portion of the sample  12  is expelled from the collection chamber  26 . The first deformable portion  62  and the second deformable portion  64  are simultaneously squeezed to transition from the initial position to the deformed position. 
     Advantageously, by having a first deformable portion  62  and a second deformable portion  64  that can be simultaneously squeezed, a collection module  14  of the present disclosure is able to dispense more sample  12  out of the collection chamber  26  and the outlet port  34 . Furthermore, in one embodiment, by having a first deformable portion  62  on a first side  70  and a second deformable portion  64  on an opposite second side  72 , a collection module  14  of the present disclosure has a symmetrical design and provides a smooth straight fluid path chamber that encourages fluid attachment flow characteristics. The smooth straight fluid path chamber of the collection module  14  is without significant geometric steps in diameter and the smooth fluid pathway inhibits the formation of air pockets or bubbles. 
     After passing through the mixing chamber  22 , the stabilized sample is directed to the collection chamber  26 . The collection chamber  26  may take any suitable shape and size to store a sufficient volume of blood necessary for the desired testing, for example, 500 μl or less. In one embodiment, the collection chamber  26  is defined by a portion of the housing  20  in combination with a first deformable portion  62 , a second deformable portion  64 , and a rigid wall portion  66 . 
     The first deformable portion  62  and the second deformable portion  64  may be made of any material that is flexible, deformable, and capable of providing a fluid tight seal with the housing  20 . In some embodiments, the first deformable portion  62  and the second deformable portion  64  may be made of natural or synthetic rubber, and other suitable elastomeric materials. The first deformable portion  62  and the second deformable portion  64  are secured to a portion of the housing  20  such that the first deformable portion  62  and the second deformable portion  64  are transitionable between an initial position ( FIGS. 18, 22, and 23 ) in which the sample  12  is contained within the collection chamber  26  and a deformed position ( FIGS. 19 and 24 ) in which a portion of the sample  12  is expelled from the collection chamber  26 . 
     In another embodiment, the actuation portion  61  of the collection chamber  26  may comprise an activation member in accordance with an activation member described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/065,022, filed Mar. 9, 2016, entitled “Biological Fluid Micro-Sample Management Device”, the entire disclosure of which is hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference. 
     In other embodiments, the actuation portion  61  of the collection chamber  26  may comprise actuation portions in accordance with actuation portions and/or deformable portions described in U.S. Patent Application Ser. No. 62/634,960, filed Feb. 26, 2018, entitled “Biological Fluid Collection Device and Collection Module”, the entire disclosure of which is hereby expressly incorporated herein by reference. 
     In one embodiment, the collection module  14  includes a cap  30  that is removably attachable to the outlet port  34  and that protectively covers the outlet port  34 . In one embodiment, the cap  30  includes a venting plug  80  which allows air to pass therethrough and prevents the sample  12  from passing therethrough. 
     The construction of the cap  30  and venting plug  80  allows air to pass through the cap  30  while preventing the blood sample  12  from passing through the cap  30  and may include a hydrophobic filter. The venting plug  80  has selected air passing resistance that may be used to finely control the filling rate of the passageway  36  and/or the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . By varying the porosity of the plug, the velocity of the air flow out of the cap  30 , and thus the velocity of the blood sample flow into the collection module  14 , may be controlled. 
     In one embodiment, the collection module  14  includes a closure  28  that is engaged with the inlet port  32  of the collection module  14  to seal the passageway  36 . The closure  28  protectively covers the inlet port  32 . The closure  28  allows for introduction of a blood sample  12  into the passageway  36  of the housing  20  and may include a pierceable self-sealing stopper  82  with an outer shield  84  such as a Hemogard™ cap commercially available from Becton, Dickinson and Company. 
     The present disclosure provides a biological fluid collection system  10  that includes a power source  16  for a collection module  14  that receives a sample  12  and provides flow-through blood stabilization technology and a precise sample dispensing function for point-of-care and near patient testing applications. A power source of the present disclosure allows a user activated vacuum source. 
     In one embodiment, the power source  16  includes a spring loaded device for automatic drawing of a blood sample  12  within the collection module  14 . A spring loaded power source utilizes a user activated, spring powered piston to generate a vacuum on a distal end of a collection module  14 . In such an embodiment, by controlling the stiffness of and travel length of the spring, a predictable vacuum can be applied to a fluid path of the collection module  14  to generate a given flow rate of blood as it fills the collection module  14 . Predictable flow rates are important for the mixing structure. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-3 , in one exemplary embodiment, a power source  16  is removably connectable with a collection module  14  and the power source  16  creates a vacuum that draws a sample  12  within the collection chamber  26 . In one embodiment, the power source  16  includes a barrel  110 , a piston  112 , a spring  114 , an activation button  116 , and a lock  118  (exemplary embodiments shown in  FIGS. 4A-8E ). In one embodiment, the piston  112  includes an O-ring  150  that provides stiction with the interior surface of a sidewall  126  of the barrel  110 . 
     The barrel  110  is in communication with the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . The barrel  110  defines an interior  120  and includes a first end  122 , a second end  124 , and a sidewall  126  therebetween. The barrel  110  is removably connectable with a portion of the collection module  14 . For example, in one embodiment, the barrel  110  is removably connectable with the cap  30  of the collection module  14  such that a vacuum created by the power source  16  is able to draw a sample  12  within the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . As discussed above, the cap  30  includes a venting plug  80  which allows air to pass therethrough and prevents the sample  12  from passing therethrough. In this manner, the vacuum created within the barrel  110  of the power source  16  is in communication with the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14  such that a vacuum created by the power source  16  is able to draw a sample  12  within the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . 
     The piston  112  is slidably disposed within the interior  120  of the barrel  110 . The piston  112  is sized relative to the interior  120  of the barrel  110  to provide sealing engagement with the sidewall  126  of the barrel  110 . The piston  112  is transitionable between a first piston position ( FIG. 1 ), in which the piston  112  is a first distance from the first end  122  of the barrel  110 , and a second piston position ( FIG. 2 ), in which the piston  112  is a second distance from the first end  122  of the barrel  110 , the second distance greater than the first distance. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-3 , the spring  114  is disposed between the first end  122  of the barrel  110  and the piston  112 . In one embodiment, the activation button  116  is disposed on a portion of the barrel  110 . 
     The power source  16  also includes a lock  118  that is in communication with the spring  114  and the activation button  116 . The lock  118  is transitionable between a locked position, in which the lock  118  locks the piston  112  in the first piston position ( FIG. 1 ) and maintains the spring  114  in a compressed position, and an unlocked position, in which the piston  112  is unlocked and the spring  114  is permitted to drive the piston  112  to the second piston position ( FIG. 2 ) thereby creating a vacuum that pulls the sample  12  within the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . In one embodiment, actuation of the activation button  116  moves the lock  118  to the unlocked position. 
     Exemplary embodiments of a lock  118  of a power source of the present disclosure will now be discussed. Referring to  FIGS. 4A-6C , in an exemplary embodiment, a power source  206  is removably connectable with a collection module  14  and the power source  206  creates a vacuum that draws a sample  12  within the collection chamber  26 . In one embodiment, the power source  206  includes a barrel  210 , a piston  212 , a spring  214 , an activation button  216 , and a lock  218 . 
     The barrel  210  is in communication with the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . The barrel  210  defines an interior  220  and includes a first end  222 , a second end  224 , and a sidewall  226  therebetween. The barrel  210  is removably connectable with a portion of the collection module  14 . For example, the barrel  210  is removably connectable with the cap  30  of the collection module  14  such that a vacuum created by the power source  206  is able to draw a sample  12  within the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . As discussed above, the cap  30  includes a venting plug  80  which allows air to pass therethrough and prevents the sample  12  from passing therethrough. In this manner, the vacuum created within the barrel  210  of the power source  206  is in communication with the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14  such that a vacuum created by the power source  206  is able to draw a sample  12  within the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . 
     The piston  212  is slidably disposed within the interior  220  of the barrel  210 . The piston  212  is sized relative to the interior  220  of the barrel  210  to provide sealing engagement with the sidewall  226  of the barrel  210 . The piston  212  is transitionable between a first piston position ( FIG. 6A ), in which the piston  212  is a first distance from the first end  222  of the barrel  210 , and a second piston position ( FIG. 6C ), in which the piston  212  is a second distance from the first end  222  of the barrel  210 , the second distance greater than the first distance. In one embodiment, the piston  212  includes an O-ring  250  that provides stiction with the interior surface of the sidewall  226  of the barrel  210 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 6A-6C , the spring  214  is disposed between the first end  222  of the barrel  210  and the piston  212 . The spring  214  is maintained in a pre-loaded position with the lock  218  in the locked position, in which the lock  218  locks the piston  212  in the first piston position and maintains the spring  214  in a compressed position. In one embodiment, the activation button  216  is disposed on a portion of the barrel  210 . 
     The power source  206  also includes a lock  218  that is in communication with the spring  214  and the activation button  216 . The lock  218  is transitionable between a locked position, in which the lock  218  locks the piston  212  in the first piston position ( FIG. 6A ) and maintains the spring  214  in a compressed position, and an unlocked position, in which the piston  212  is unlocked and the spring  214  is permitted to drive the piston  212  to the second piston position ( FIG. 6C ) thereby creating a vacuum that pulls the sample  12  within the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . In one embodiment, actuation of the activation button  216  moves the lock  218  to the unlocked position. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 4A-6C , in one embodiment, the lock  218  includes the activation button  216 , button longitudinal portions  230 , rotatable locking clips  232 , and bendable portions  234 . The barrel  210  includes a pair of sidewall apertures  240  that respectively receive rotatable locking clips  232  in the locked position ( FIG. 6A ). 
     Referring to  FIG. 6A , with the lock  218  in the locked position, the rotatable locking clips  232  are locked within the respective sidewall apertures  240  of the barrel  210 . In the locked position, the lock  218  locks the piston  212  in the first piston position and maintains the spring  214  in a compressed position. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 4A-6C and 27-29 , use of a biological fluid collection system  10  of the present disclosure having a collection module  14  and a power source  206  will now be described. In use, a needle cannula  100  ( FIGS. 28 and 29 ) is inserted into the passageway  36  of the housing  20  of the collection module  14  through the inlet port  32 , such as through the pierceable self-sealing stopper  82  of closure  28 . Referring to  FIGS. 4A-6C and 27-29 , the biological fluid collection system  10  including the collection module  14  and the power source  206  may be inserted into a conventional tube holder  102  having a cannula  100  through which biological fluid, such as a blood sample  12 , is passed. 
     When a user desires to pull a blood sample  12  into the collection module  14  from the conventional tube holder  102  by the draw of a vacuum created within the power source  206 , the user actuates, i.e., pushes down, the activation button  216  which moves the lock  218  to the unlocked position ( FIGS. 6B and 6C ). Referring to  FIG. 6B , pushing down on the activation button  216  forces the button longitudinal portions  230  to move downward thereby rotating the locking clips  232  inwardly and out of engagement with the sidewall apertures  240  of the barrel  210 . In this manner, the locking clips  232  of the lock  218  are rotated into the unlocked position ( FIGS. 6B and 6C ). In one embodiment, the locking clips  232  rotate about the bendable portions  234 . In one embodiment, as the activation button  216  is pressed, e.g., pushed down, a stiction is broken between an O-ring  250  and the interior surface of the sidewall  226  of the barrel  210 . 
     With the lock  218  in the unlocked position ( FIGS. 6B and 6C ), the piston  212  is unlocked and the spring  214  is permitted to drive the piston  212  to the second piston position ( FIG. 6C ) thereby creating a vacuum within the barrel  210  that pulls a blood sample  12  within the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14  from the conventional tube holder  102 . 
     Advantageously, a collection module and a power source of the present disclosure can be engaged with many different sources through which biological fluid, such as a blood sample  12 , is passed. For example, in some embodiments, a collection module and a power source of the present disclosure can be engaged with a conventional tube holder  102  as described above. In other embodiments, a user activated power source of the present disclosure enables the user to connect directly to a Luer-line, e.g., IV Catheter, wingset, PICC, or similar device. In other embodiments, if the collection module and the power source are used with a HemoLuer, a user may connect the collection module and the power source to either a Luer (by removing the HemoLuer) or a conventional tube holder (using the HemoLuer as an interface). Advantageously, the system of the present disclosure also allows for direct Luer access without the use of an LLAD (Luer Line Access Device) or any other holder. 
     The blood sample  12  is pulled into the passageway  36  of the housing  20  of the collection module  14  from the conventional tube holder  102  by the draw of the vacuum created in the barrel  210 . In one embodiment, the blood sample  12  fills the entire passageway  36  such that, as the blood sample  12  enters the collection module  14 , the blood sample  12  passes through the open cell foam, e.g., the material  40 , and is exposed to the anticoagulant powder  44  available throughout the internal pore  42  structure of the open cell foam. In this manner, the sample  12  dissolves and mixes with the dry anticoagulant powder  44  while passing through the material  40  or open cell foam. Next, the mixing chamber  22  receives the sample  12  and the sample stabilizer  24  therein and effectuates distributed mixing of the sample stabilizer  24  within the sample  12 . After passing through the mixing chamber  22 , the stabilized sample is directed to the collection chamber  26 . The collection chamber  26  may take any suitable shape and size to store a sufficient volume of blood necessary for the desired testing, for example, 500 μl or less. In one embodiment, the cap  30  stops the collection of the blood sample  12  when the passageway  36 , the mixing chamber  22 , and the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14  have been fully filled. The venting plug  80  of the cap  30  allows air to pass through the cap  30  while preventing the blood sample  12  from passing through the cap  30  into the barrel  210  of the power source  206 . 
     In one embodiment, once sample collection is complete, the power source  206  and the collection module  14  are separated from the tube holder  102  ( FIG. 29 ), and then the power source  206  is separated from the collection module  14  ( FIG. 25 ). 
     Once the collection module  14  is separated from the power source  206 , the cap  30  may then be removed from the collection module  14  ( FIG. 26 ) exposing the outlet port  34  of the housing  20  of the collection module  14 . Removal may be accomplished by the user grasping an exterior portion of the cap  30  and pulling the cap  30  from the housing  20 . The blood sample  12  is held within the passageway  36  of the housing  20 , e.g., the collection chamber  26 , by capillary action after removal of the cap  30 . 
     The blood sample  12  may then be dispensed from the collection module  14  by activation of the actuation portion  61 . In one embodiment, the actuation portion  61  includes a first deformable portion  62  and a second deformable portion  64 . For example, the first deformable portion  62  and the second deformable portion  64  are transitionable between an initial position ( FIGS. 18 and 23 ) in which the sample  12  is contained within the collection chamber  26  and a deformed position ( FIGS. 19 and 24 ) in which a portion of the sample  12  is expelled from the collection chamber  26  and the outlet port  34 . The first deformable portion  62  and the second deformable portion  64  are simultaneously squeezed to transition from the initial position ( FIGS. 18 and 23 ) to the deformed position ( FIGS. 19 and 24 ). In this manner, the blood sample  12  may be transferred to a device intended to analyze the sample, e.g., such as a point-of-care testing device  105  ( FIGS. 18 and 19 ), a cartridge tester, or a near patient testing device, while minimizing the exposure of the medical practitioner to the blood sample. 
     Advantageously, by having a first deformable portion  62  and a second deformable portion  64  that can be simultaneously squeezed, a collection module  14  of the present disclosure is able to dispense more sample  12  out of the collection chamber  26  and the outlet port  34 . Furthermore, in one embodiment, by having a first deformable portion  62  on a first side  70  and a second deformable portion  64  on an opposite second side  72 , a collection module  14  of the present disclosure has a symmetrical design and provides a smooth straight fluid path chamber that encourages fluid attachment flow characteristics. 
     Another exemplary embodiment of a lock  118  of a power source will now be discussed. Referring to  FIGS. 7A-8E , in an exemplary embodiment, a power source  306  is removably connectable with a collection module  14  and the power source  306  creates a vacuum that draws a sample  12  within the collection chamber  26 . In one embodiment, the power source  306  includes a barrel  310 , a piston  312 , a spring  314 , an activation button  316 , and a lock  318 . 
     The barrel  310  is in communication with the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . The barrel  310  defines an interior  320  and includes a first end  322 , a second end  324 , and a sidewall  326  therebetween. The barrel  310  is removably connectable with a portion of the collection module  14 . For example, the barrel  310  is removably connectable with the cap  30  of the collection module  14  such that a vacuum created by the power source  306  is able to draw a sample  12  within the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . As discussed above, the cap  30  includes a venting plug  80  which allows air to pass therethrough and prevents the sample  12  from passing therethrough. In this manner, the vacuum created within the barrel  310  of the power source  306  is in communication with the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14  such that a vacuum created by the power source  306  is able to draw a sample  12  within the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . 
     The piston  312  is slidably disposed within the interior  320  of the barrel  310 . The piston  312  is sized relative to the interior  320  of the barrel  310  to provide sealing engagement with the sidewall  326  of the barrel  310 . The piston  312  is transitionable between a first piston position ( FIG. 7D ), in which the piston  312  is a first distance from the first end  322  of the barrel  310 , and a second piston position ( FIG. 7E ), in which the piston  312  is a second distance from the first end  322  of the barrel  310 , the second distance greater than the first distance. In one embodiment, the piston  312  includes an O-ring  350  that provides stiction with the interior surface of the sidewall  326  of the barrel  310 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7D-7E , the spring  314  is disposed between the first end  322  of the barrel  310  and the piston  312 . The spring  314  is maintained in a pre-loaded position with the lock  318  in the locked position, in which the lock  318  locks the piston  312  in the first piston position and maintains the spring  314  in a compressed position. In one embodiment, the activation button  316  is disposed on a portion of the barrel  310 . 
     The power source  306  also includes a lock  318  that is in communication with the spring  314  and the activation button  316 . The lock  318  is transitionable between a locked position, in which the lock  318  locks the piston  312  in the first piston position ( FIG. 7D ) and maintains the spring  314  in a compressed position, and an unlocked position, in which the piston  312  is unlocked and the spring  314  is permitted to drive the piston  312  to the second piston position ( FIG. 7E ) thereby creating a vacuum that pulls the sample  12  within the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . In one embodiment, actuation of the activation button  316  moves the lock  318  to the unlocked position. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7A-8E , in one embodiment, the lock  318  includes a cinch ring  330  including a button portion  332 , a barrier portion  334 , and a ring portion  336 . The barrel  310  includes a sidewall aperture  340  that receives the cinch ring  330 . In one embodiment, the activation button  316  is the button portion  332 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 7D , with the lock  318  in the locked position, the barrier portion  334  extends into the barrel  310  and contacts a portion of the piston  312  to lock the piston  312  in the first piston position and maintain the spring  314  in a compressed position. In this manner, the barrier portion  334  of the cinch ring  330  acts as a physical barrier to prevent piston from movement within the barrel  310  and to lock the piston  312  in the first piston position and maintain the spring  314  in a compressed position. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 7D-7E , use of a biological fluid collection system  10  of the present disclosure having a collection module  14  and a power source  306  will now be described. Use of the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 7A-8E  involves similar steps of use as the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 4A-6C , as described in detail above. For the sake of brevity, these similar steps of using a biological fluid collection system  10  of the present disclosure having a collection module  14  and a power source  306  will not all be discussed in conjunction with the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 7A-8E . 
     In use, as described above, a needle cannula  100  ( FIGS. 28 and 29 ) is inserted into the passageway  36  of the housing  20  of the collection module  14  through the inlet port  32 , such as through the pierceable self-sealing stopper  82  of closure  28 . As described above, in one embodiment, the biological fluid collection system  10  including the collection module  14  and the power source  306  may be inserted into a conventional tube holder  102  having a cannula  100  through which biological fluid, such as a blood sample  12 , is passed. 
     When a user desires to pull a blood sample  12  into the collection module  14  from the conventional tube holder  102  by the draw of a vacuum created within the power source  306 , the user actuates, i.e., pushes in, the button portion  332  which moves the lock  318  to the unlocked position ( FIG. 7E ). Referring to  FIG. 7E , pushing the button portion  332  in forces the barrier portion  334  to move outward thereby disengaging from contact with the piston  312 . In this manner, the lock  318  is moved to the unlocked position. In one embodiment, as the button portion  332  is pressed, e.g., pushed in, a stiction is broken between an O-ring  350  and the interior surface of the sidewall  326  of the barrel  310 . 
     With the lock  318  in the unlocked position ( FIG. 7E ), the piston  312  is unlocked and the spring  314  is permitted to drive the piston  312  to the second piston position ( FIG. 7E ) thereby creating a vacuum within the barrel  310  that pulls a blood sample  12  within the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14  from the conventional tube holder  102 . 
     As described above, once sample collection is complete, the power source  306  and the collection module  14  are separated from the tube holder  102  ( FIG. 29 ), and then the power source  306  is separated from the collection module  14  ( FIG. 25 ). 
     Once the collection module  14  is separated from the power source  306 , the cap  30  may then be removed from the collection module  14  ( FIG. 26 ) exposing the outlet port  34  of the housing  20  of the collection module  14 . Removal may be accomplished by the user grasping an exterior portion of the cap  30  and pulling the cap  30  from the housing  20 . The blood sample  12  is held within the passageway  36  of the housing  20 , e.g., the collection chamber  26 , by capillary action after removal of the cap  30 . 
     As described above, the blood sample  12  may then be dispensed from the collection module  14  by activation of the actuation portion  61  as shown in  FIGS. 18 and 19 . 
     The present disclosure provides a biological fluid collection system  10  that includes a power source  16  for a collection module  14  that receives a sample  12  and provides flow-through blood stabilization technology and a precise sample dispensing function for point-of-care and near patient testing applications. A power source of the present disclosure allows a user activated vacuum source. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 9-14 , the power source  406  includes an evacuated tube and tube holder device for automatic drawing of a blood sample  12  within the collection module  14 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 9-11 , in one exemplary embodiment, a power source  406  is removably connectable with a collection module  14  and the power source  406  has a vacuum that draws a sample  12  within the collection chamber  26 . In one embodiment, the power source  406  includes an evacuated tube  410 , a tube holder  412 , and a spike  414 . 
     The evacuated tube  410  includes a first tube end  420 , a second tube end  422 , and a sidewall  424  extending therebetween and defining a tube interior  426 . The evacuated tube contains the vacuum. The evacuated tube  410  includes a closure  428  sealing the first tube end  420 . 
     The tube holder  412  is removably connectable with a portion of the collection module  14 . In one embodiment, the tube holder  412  defines an interior  430  and includes a first end  432 , a second end  434 , and a tube holder sidewall  436  therebetween. 
     In one embodiment, the spike  414  includes a first spike end  440  and a second spike end  442 . The spike  414  is removably connectable with a portion of the collection module  14  and with a portion of the power source  406 . The spike  414  is able to be placed in communication with the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . 
     In one embodiment, the evacuated tube  410  is movably disposed within the interior  430  of the tube holder  412  between a first tube position ( FIG. 9 ), in which the evacuated tube  410  is disengaged from the spike  414 , and a second tube position ( FIG. 10 ), in which the closure  428  of the evacuated tube  410  is pierced by the spike  414 . 
     In one embodiment, with the evacuated tube  410  in the first tube position ( FIG. 9 ), a portion of the second tube end  422  is exposed from the second end  434  of the tube holder  412  and the second tube end  422  can be pushed to move the evacuated tube  410  to the second tube position ( FIG. 10 ). Referring to  FIGS. 9-11 , in one embodiment, the second tube end  422  comprises an arcuate surface. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 9-11 , use of a biological fluid collection system  10  of the present disclosure having a collection module  14  and a power source  406  will now be described. Use of the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 9-11  involves similar steps of use as the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 4A-6C , as described in detail above. For the sake of brevity, these similar steps of using a biological fluid collection system  10  of the present disclosure having a collection module  14  and a power source  406  will not all be discussed in conjunction with the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 9-11 . 
     In use, as described above, a needle cannula  100  ( FIGS. 28 and 29 ) is inserted into the passageway  36  of the housing  20  of the collection module  14  through the inlet port  32 , such as through the pierceable self-sealing stopper  82  of closure  28 . As described above, in one embodiment, the biological fluid collection system  10  including the collection module  14  and the power source  406  may be inserted into a conventional tube holder  102  having a cannula  100  through which biological fluid, such as a blood sample  12 , is passed. 
     When a user desires to pull a blood sample  12  into the collection module  14  from the conventional tube holder  102  by the draw of a vacuum within the power source  406 , the user actuates, i.e., pushes down, the second tube end  422  of the evacuated tube  410  which moves the evacuated tube  410  to the second tube position ( FIG. 10 ). Referring to  FIG. 10 , pushing down on the evacuated tube  410  forces the spike  414  to pierce the closure  428  of the evacuated tube  410 . In this manner, the vacuum contained within the evacuated tube  410  is in communication with the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14  via the spike  414  and the vacuum of the evacuated tube  410  draws the sample  12  within the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . 
     As described above, once sample collection is complete, the power source  406  and the collection module  14  are separated from the tube holder  102  ( FIG. 29 ), and then the power source  406  is separated from the collection module  14  ( FIG. 11 ). Referring to  FIG. 11 , in one embodiment, with the collection module  14  separated from the power source  406 , the spike  414  remains in the evacuated tube  410 . 
     Once the collection module  14  is separated from the power source  406 , the cap  30  may then be removed from the collection module  14  ( FIG. 26 ) exposing the outlet port  34  of the housing  20  of the collection module  14 . Removal may be accomplished by the user grasping an exterior portion of the cap  30  and pulling the cap  30  from the housing  20 . The blood sample  12  is held within the passageway  36  of the housing  20 , e.g., the collection chamber  26 , by capillary action after removal of the cap  30 . 
     As described above, the blood sample  12  may then be dispensed from the collection module  14  by activation of the actuation portion  61  as shown in  FIGS. 18 and 19 . 
       FIGS. 12A-14C  illustrate other exemplary embodiments of a biological fluid collection system  10  including a power source  406  having an evacuated tube  410  and tube holder  412  device for automatic drawing of a blood sample  12  within the collection module  14 . The embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 12A-14C  include similar components to the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 9-11 . For the sake of brevity, these similar components and the similar steps of using these devices will not all be discussed in conjunction with the embodiments illustrated in  FIGS. 12A-14C . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 12A-14C , in one embodiment, the tube holder  412  of the power source  406  includes finger flange portions  460  that facilitate the handling and use of the power source  406 . 
     The present disclosure provides a biological fluid collection system  10  that includes a power source  16  for a collection module  14  that receives a sample  12  and provides flow-through blood stabilization technology and a precise sample dispensing function for point-of-care and near patient testing applications. A power source of the present disclosure allows a user activated vacuum source. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 15-17 , the power source  506  includes a syringe assembly for automatic drawing of a blood sample  12  within the collection module  14 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 15-17 , in one exemplary embodiment, a power source  506  is removably connectable with a collection module  14  and the power source  506  creates a vacuum that draws a sample  12  within the collection chamber  26 . In one embodiment, the power source  506  includes a barrel  510 , a stopper  512 , and a plunger  514 . In one embodiment, the barrel  510 , the stopper  512 , and the plunger  514  are part of a syringe assembly. 
     The barrel  510  is in communication with the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . The barrel  510  defines an interior  520  and includes a first end  522 , a second end  524 , and a sidewall  526  therebetween. The barrel  510  is removably connectable with a portion of the collection module  14 . For example, the barrel  510  is removably connectable with the cap  30  of the collection module  14  such that a vacuum created by the power source  506  is able to draw a sample  12  within the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . As discussed above, the cap  30  includes a venting plug  80  which allows air to pass therethrough and prevents the sample  12  from passing therethrough. In this manner, the vacuum created within the barrel  510  of the power source  506  is in communication with the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14  such that a vacuum created by the power source  506  is able to draw a sample  12  within the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . 
     The stopper  512  is slidably disposed within the interior  520  of the barrel  510 . The stopper  512  is sized relative to the interior  520  of the barrel  510  to provide sealing engagement with the sidewall  526  of the barrel  510 . The stopper  512  is transitionable between a first stopper position ( FIG. 15 ), in which the stopper  512  is a first distance from the first end  522  of the barrel  510 , and a second stopper position ( FIG. 16 ), in which the stopper  512  is a second distance from the first end  522  of the barrel  510 , the second distance greater than the first distance. 
     The plunger  514  includes a first plunger end  530  and a second plunger end  532 . In one embodiment, a portion of the first plunger end  530  is engaged with the stopper  512 , wherein movement of the plunger  514  away from the first end  522  of the barrel  510  moves the stopper  512  to the second stopper position ( FIG. 16 ) thereby creating a vacuum that pulls the sample  12  within the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 15-17 , use of a biological fluid collection system  10  of the present disclosure having a collection module  14  and a power source  506  will now be described. Use of the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 15-17  involves similar steps of use as the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 4A-6C , as described in detail above. For the sake of brevity, these similar steps of using a biological fluid collection system  10  of the present disclosure having a collection module  14  and a power source  506  will not all be discussed in conjunction with the embodiment illustrated in  FIGS. 15-17 . 
     In use, as described above, a needle cannula  100  ( FIGS. 28 and 29 ) is inserted into the passageway  36  of the housing  20  of the collection module  14  through the inlet port  32 , such as through the pierceable self-sealing stopper  82  of closure  28 . As described above, in one embodiment, the biological fluid collection system  10  including the collection module  14  and the power source  506  may be inserted into a conventional tube holder  102  having a cannula  100  through which biological fluid, such as a blood sample  12 , is passed. 
     When a user desires to pull a blood sample  12  into the collection module  14  from the conventional tube holder  102  by the draw of a vacuum created within the power source  506 , the user moves the plunger  514  away from the first end  522  of the barrel  510  to move the stopper to the second stopper position ( FIG. 16 ) thereby creating a vacuum that pulls the sample  12  within the collection chamber  26  of the collection module  14 . 
     As described above, once sample collection is complete, the power source  506  and the collection module  14  are separated from the tube holder  102  ( FIG. 29 ), and then the power source  506  is separated from the collection module  14  ( FIG. 17 ). 
     Once the collection module  14  is separated from the power source  506 , the cap  30  may then be removed from the collection module  14  ( FIG. 26 ) exposing the outlet port  34  of the housing  20  of the collection module  14 . Removal may be accomplished by the user grasping an exterior portion of the cap  30  and pulling the cap  30  from the housing  20 . The blood sample  12  is held within the passageway  36  of the housing  20 , e.g., the collection chamber  26 , by capillary action after removal of the cap  30 . 
     As described above, the blood sample  12  may then be dispensed from the collection module  14  by activation of the actuation portion  61  as shown in  FIGS. 18 and 19 . 
     As described herein, the present disclosure provides a biological fluid collection system that includes a power source for a collection module that receives a sample and provides flow-through blood stabilization technology and a precise sample dispensing function for point-of-care and near patient testing applications. A power source of the present disclosure provides a user activated vacuum source for drawing a biological fluid sample within a collection module. 
     A collection module of the present disclosure is able to effectuate distributed mixing of a sample stabilizer within a blood sample and dispense the stabilized sample in a controlled manner. In this manner, a biological fluid collection system of the present disclosure enables blood micro-sample management, e.g., passive mixing with a sample stabilizer and controlled dispensing, for point-of-care and near patient testing applications. 
     Advantageously, a biological fluid collection system of the present disclosure provides a consistent blood sample management tool for point-of-care and near patient testing applications, automatic blood draw, passive mixing technology, and controlled small sample dispensing capability to point-of-care cartridge and standard luer interfaces with near patient testing receiving ports. 
     While this disclosure has been described as having exemplary designs, the present disclosure can be further modified within the spirit and scope of this disclosure. This application is therefore intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the disclosure using its general principles. Further, this application is intended to cover such departures from the present disclosure as come within known or customary practice in the art to which this disclosure pertains and which fall within the limits of the appended claims.