Collector Accessory for Small Volume Collection Containers and Related Sample Collection Methods

A collection assembly comprising:

• a collection container comprising an open first end, a second end, and an annular sidewall extending between the first end and the second end, the annular sidewall of the collection container defining an interior reservoir configured to receive a biological sample;
• and
• an accessory device removably mounted to the open first end of the collection container, the accessory device comprising:
• a cover comprising (i) an inner portion inserted into the collection container comprising a sidewall having an inner surface defining a channel through the accessory device and an outer surface with an outer diameter sized to seal against an inner surface of the annular sidewall of the collection container and (ii) an outer portion extending radially outward from the inner portion and over the open first end of the collection container;
• and
• a collector extending distally from the cover configured for directing the biological sample through the channel defined by the inner surface of the inner portion of the cover and into the interior reservoir of the collection container.

A method for automated blood sample processing, comprising:

• mounting an accessory device to a collection container by inserting an inner portion of the accessory device though an open first end of the collection container, wherein the accessory device comprises:
• a cover comprising (i) the inner portion comprising a sidewall having an inner surface defining a channel through the accessory device and an outer surface with an outer diameter sized to seal against an inner surface of a sidewall of the collection container and (ii) an outer portion extending radially outward from the inner portion configured to extend over the open first end of the collection container;
• and
• a collector extending distally from the cover configured for directing the blood sample to the channel defined by the inner surface of the inner portion of the cover;
• obtaining the blood sample by directing the blood sample through the collector and into an interior reservoir of the collection container through the channel defined by the inner portion of the accessory device;
• once the blood sample is obtained, removing the accessory device from the open first end of the collection container;
• and
• processing the obtained blood sample in the collection container using at least one automated processing device.