Patent ID: 7041067

Claim:
A method for collecting body fluid from the skin, said method comprising: providing a sampling device comprising a base, a sample needle having an axis and a distal end, a first pressure surface distinct from said base and at least partially surrounding said needle in spaced relation thereto, wherein said needle and said first pressure surface are movable relative to one another and to said base along a path of travel generally parallel to said axis with said needle, and a second pressure surface at least partially surrounding said needle, the second pressure surface fixed relative to said needle and movable relative to said base; said second pressure surface axially spaced from said distal end of said needle by a distance approximating a desired penetration of said needle into said skin; urging said first pressure surface against said skin with a force sufficient to define a pressurized zone of interstitial fluid opposing said needle; and biasing said first pressure surface to a position wherein said distal end of said needle is recessed behind said first pressure surface.