Microbiological specimen sampling device

A microbiological specimen sampling device capable of operation by one hand for exposure of a sample collector and for obtaining contamination-free specimens, comprising

• a catheter assembly comprising:
• an outer catheter having a distal end and a proximal end, and an inner catheter having a distal end and a proximal end,
• a sample collector disposed generally within said inner catheter,
• a removable, water soluble plug engaging and sealing a portion of said outer catheter in a position between the distal end of said outer catheter and the distal end of said inner catheter, and
• means operable by one hand for moving said outer catheter axially with respect to said inner catheter and for extending said sample collector beyond the distal ends of said catheters to obtain a sample, comprising:
• a first handle member at the proximal end of said outer catheter,
• a second handle member at the proximal end of said inner catheter and located proximally of said first handle member, and
• operating means for said sample collector,
• said handle members defining respective surfaces adapted and arranged for operating engagement by different digits of one hand of an operator to be drawn together to cause relative axial movement of said inner and outer catheters to dislodge said plug from said outer catheter by pushing-out motion of said inner catheter, and
• said operating means of said sample collector adapted to be operated by a digit of the same hand while the hand grasps the proximal end of said catheter assembly.