FLUID COLLECTION DEVICE INCLUDING ONE OR MORE SECUREMENT STRAPS
BACKGROUND
[0001] A patient may have limited or impaired mobility such that typical urination processes are challenging or impossible. For example, the patient may have surgery or a disability that impairs mobility. In another example, the patient may have restricted travel conditions such as those experience by pilots, drivers, and workers in hazardous areas. Additionally, fluid collection from the patient may be needed for monitoring purposes or clinical testing.
[0002] Urine collection systems have been developed to address some of these circumstances. Bed pans and urinary catheters, such as a Foley catheter, may also be used. However, bed pans and urinary catheters have several problems associated therewith. For example, bed pans may be prone to discomfort, spills, and other hygiene issues. Urinary catheters be may be uncomfortable, painful, and may cause urinary tract infections. Other urine collection systems may restrict the mobility of the patent due to use of a pump to draw fluid into the collection system.
[0003] Thus, users and manufacturers of fluid collection assemblies continue to seek new and improved devices, systems, and methods to collect urine.
SUMMARY
[0004] Embodiments disclosed herein include fluid collection devices one or more straps configured to wrap around the user, without discomforting the user, to secure the fluid collection device to the user, fluid collection systems including the same, and methods of using the same. In an embodiment, a fluid collection device is disclosed. The fluid collection device may include a fluid impermeable shell defining a chamber, the fluid impermeable shell including a base and a distal region, the base defining an opening and the distal region defining a fluid outlet. The base can be configured to contact skin surrounding a penis of a user. The base can also include a polymeric material disposed around the opening, the polymeric material having a stiffness less than a stiffness of the fluid impermeable shell. The fluid collection device may also include a tube in fluid communication with the fluid outlet, and one or more straps connected to the distal region of the fluid impermeable shell, the one or more straps configured to wrap around the user to secure the fluid collection device to the user.
[0005] In an embodiment, a fluid collection system is disclosed. The fluid collection system may include a fluid storage container configured to hold a fluid and a fluid collection device. The fluid collection device can include a fluid impermeable shell at least defining a chamber, an opening, and a fluid outlet. The opening can be disposed at a base of the chamber, the base being configured to contact skin surrounding a penis of a user. The base can include a polymeric material disposed around the opening. One or more straps may be connected to a distal region of the fluid impermeable shell, the one or more straps configured to wrap around the user to secure the fluid collection device to the user. The fluid collection system can also include a tube in fluid communication with the fluid outlet and a vacuum source fluidly coupled to one or more of the fluid storage container or the fluid collection device via the tube. The vacuum source can be configured to draw fluid from the fluid collection device to the fluid storage container.
[0006] In an embodiment, a method to collect bodily fluids from an individual is disclosed. In some embodiments, the method may include positioning a fluid collection device at least proximate to a urethra of a user by attaching the fluid collection device to skin surrounding a penis. The fluid collection device can include a fluid impermeable shell at least defining a chamber, an opening and a fluid outlet. The opening can be disposed at a base of the chamber with the base configured to contact skin surrounding a penis of a user. The base of the fluid collection device can include a polymeric material disposed around the opening. The fluid collection device can include a tube in fluid communication with the fluid outlet. One or more straps can be connected to a distal end of the chamber, the one or more straps configured to wrap around the user to secure the fluid collection device to the user. The method may further include positioning the one or straps around the user and receiving fluid discharged from the user in the fluid collection device. The method can also include receiving fluid discharged from the fluid collection device in a fluid collection container.
[0007] Features from any of the disclosed embodiments may be used in combination with one another, without limitation. In addition, other features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art through consideration of the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0008] The drawings illustrate several embodiments of the present disclosure, wherein identical reference numerals refer to identical or similar elements or features in different views or embodiments shown in the drawings. [0009] FIG. 1A is an isometric view of a fluid collection device, according to some embodiments.
[0010] FIG. IB is an isometric view of a fluid collection device secured to a user, according to some embodiments.
[0011] FIG. 1C is an isometric view of a fluid collection device secured to a user, according to some embodiments.
[0012] FIG. ID is an isometric view of a fluid collection device secured to a user, according to some embodiments.
[0013] FIG. 2A is a cross-sectional view of a fluid collection secured to a user, according to some embodiments.
[0014] FIG. 2B is an isometric view of a fluid collection device having straps releaseably secured to the fluid collection device, according to some embodiments.
[0015] FIG. 2C is an isometric view of a fluid collection device having straps fixedly secured to the fluid collection device, according to some embodiments.
[0016] FIG. 3 is an illustrative view of a fluid collection system, according to some embodiments.
[0017] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of a method to collect fluid, according to some embodiments.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0018] Embodiments disclosed herein relate to fluid collection devices and systems having one or more securement straps, and methods of use. In many embodiments, a fluid collection system can include a fluid collection device and one or more straps secured or securable to the fluid collection device. The one or more straps are configured to wrap around the user to provide a technical effect of securing the fluid collection device against the body of the user and at least proximate (e.g., adjacent) to the urethra of the user. The fluid collection device can be configured to fit comfortably to the user. The fluid collection device can include a fluid impermeable shell defining a chamber, the fluid impermeable shell including a base and a distal region. The base can include an opening and the distal region can define a fluid outlet. The base can be configured to contact skin surrounding a penis of a user. The base can include a polymeric material disposed around the opening, the polymeric material having a stiffness less than a stiffness of the fluid impermeable shell. The shell can be configured to provide space within the chamber for the penis, so as not to press on the genitals. The base can include a softer material for skin contact and comfort of the user. The fluid collection device can also include a tube in fluid communication with the fluid outlet. The tube can be configured to drain the fluid from the chamber.
[0019] One or more straps can be connected to the distal region of the fluid impermeable shell, the one or more straps configured to wrap around the user to secure the fluid collection device to the user. The one or more straps can be connected to the distal region so that the straps are not against the skin of the user. Having the straps away from the skin provides better comfort for the user, especially with having swollen genitals and/or testicles.
[0020] The fluid collection devices disclosed herein are configured to collect fluid(s) from an individual. The fluid collected by the fluid collection devices may include urine. The fluid(s) collected by the fluid collection devices may also include at least one of urine, reproductive fluids, blood, sweat, or other bodily fluids. The fluid collection assemblies disclosed herein are configured to be used in fluid collection systems, which are configured to draw fluids from the fluid collection device to remove the fluid from contacting the individual and into a container for disposal.
[0021] FIG. 1A is an isometric view of a fluid collection device 100, according to an embodiment. FIG. IB is an isometric view of the fluid collection device 100 worn by a user 150. The fluid collection device 100 is an example of a fluid collection device for receiving and collecting fluid(s) from a male. The fluid collection device 100 includes a fluid impermeable shell 102, at least one opening 104, a chamber 106, and a fluid outlet 108. A tube 110 (shown in FIG. IB) may be in fluid communication with the fluid outlet 108. The fluid impermeable shell 102 includes a base 112 and a distal region 114. The base 112 defines the opening 104 and the distal region 114 defines the fluid outlet 108. The base 112 is configured to contact skin surrounding a penis of a user.
[0022] The inner surfaces of the fluid impermeable shell 102 at least partially defines the chamber 106 within the fluid collection assembly 100. The fluid impermeable shell 102 can temporarily store the bodily fluids in the chamber 106. The fluid impermeable shell 102 may be formed of any suitable fluid impermeable material(s), such as a fluid impermeable polymer (e.g., silicone, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, a polycarbonate, etc.), a metal film, natural rubber, another suitable material, or combinations thereof. As such, the fluid impermeable shell 102 substantially prevents the bodily fluids from passing through the fluid impermeable shell 102. [0023] In an at least one embodiment, the fluid impermeable shell 102 can be connected to the base 112. The base 112 can be sealed to the fluid impermeable shell 102 with an adhesive or can be connected in an interference fit. In some examples, the base 112, can be removeably connected to the fluid impermeable shell 102. The base 112 may be air permeable and fluid impermeable, thus preventing leaks while allowing air flow into/through the chamber 106. In such an example, the base 112 may be formed of a hydrophobic material that defines a plurality of pores. At least one or more portions of at least an outer surface of the base 112 may be formed from a soft and/or smooth material, thereby reducing chaffing. In some examples, the base 112 can include a polymeric material. In some examples the base 1 12 can include a foam material. The base 1 12 can be a polyethylene, polystyrene, or polyurethane foam material. The polymeric material of the base 112 can include a material having a stiffness less than a stiffness of the fluid impermeable shell 102. In other words, the base 112 material can include a higher elastic deformation than the fluid impermeable shell 102 material. In some examples, the polymeric material of the base 112 can be significantly less stiff than the fluid impermeable shell 102. For example, the base can be at least about 10% less stiff, at least about 20% less stiff, at least about 30% less stiff, at least about 40% less stiff, or at least about 60% less stiff. In some examples, the relative stiffness of the base 112 material and the fluid impermeable shell 102 material can be in ranges, such as the stiffness of the base 112 material being about 10% to about 20% less stiff, about 20% to about 30% less stiff, about 30% to about 40% less stiff, or about 40% to about 50% less stiff than the fluid impermeable shell 102 material.
[0024] In an embodiment, the fluid collection device 100 includes at least one viewing window 116 to easily conduct skin checks on the user. The window 116 can be disposed at the distal region 114 of the fluid collection device 100. In some examples the fluid impermeable shell 102 can also be transparent or translucent. In some examples, the viewing window 116 can be convex to provide a magnification for the viewer.
[0025] The fluid collection device 100 can also include a durable fastener 118. The viewing window 116 can be defined by the durable fastener 118. The durable fastener 118 can be connected to the distal region 114 of the fluid impermeable shell 102. In some examples, the durable fastener can be formed of any suitable fluid impermeable material(s), such as a fluid impermeable polymer (e.g., silicone, polypropylene, polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, a polycarbonate, etc.), a metal film, natural rubber, another suitable material, or combinations thereof. As such, the durable fastener 118 can include the same material as the fluid impermeable shell 102. In other examples, the material can be different, with the fluid impermeable shell material having a stiffness less than a stiffness of the durable fastener 118. The durable fastener 118 can also include at least one loop fastener, from which one or more straps 120 are configured to connect to the durable fastener 118.
[0026] While loop fasteners are shown on the durable fastener 118, other embodiments of the fluid collection device 100 may include other fasteners secured or securable to the fluid impermeable shell 102 in any of the positions or configurations described above. For example, clips, hook and loop fasteners, buttons, snaps, a zipper, magnets, clasps or any other fastener may be secured or secured to the fluid impermeable shell 102. At least one (e.g., both) of the one or more thigh straps 120b and the waist strap 120a may be detachably secured or securable to the fluid collection device 100 such that the fluid collection device 100 may be used with different thigh straps 120b and/or waist straps 120a, such as different sizes of thigh straps 120b and/or waist straps 120a. In some examples, the one or more straps 120 are connected to the durable fastener 118 in positions that can seal the fluid collection device 100 to the skin and minimize leakage. The straps 120 can be configured such that the combined straps 120a and 120b exhibit a force towards the user, directly over the opening 104. The straps can be positioned spaced around, in some examples equally and/or proportionally, about the durable fastener 118. In other words, the positioning of the straps at the distal region 114 correspond with the opening 104 at the base 112, the straps exerting a pressure around the penis of the user to minimize leakage through the opening 104. In some examples, the connection point of the loop fasteners on the durable fastener 118 can be adjusted to ensure aa proper fit of the fluid collection device 100 and to prevent leakage and keep the fluid collection device secure on varying body shapes.
[0027] Referring to FIG. 2A, in some examples, the fluid impermeable shell 102 may be tubular (ignoring the opening), such as substantially cylindrical, conical, or prismatic. The fluid impermeable shell 102 may be sized and shaped such that the penis of a male user can fit through the opening 104 and into the chamber 106 without discomfort. The opening 104 may provide an ingress route for the penis of the user to enter the chamber 110. The opening 104 may be defined by the base 112 such as by a hole extending through the base material, from the outer surface to the inner surface, thereby enabling the penis to enter the chamber 106 from outside of the fluid collection assembly 100. As shown in FIG. 1A, the isometric view shows the interior of the chamber 106 at an angle showing the opening 104 extending into the chamber 106. The opening 104 can extend from the base 112 at least a length into the chamber 106. For example, the opening 104 can be about 1-2 cm from an exterior surface of the base 112. In some examples, the opening 104 can also extend from an interior surface 113 of the base 112. Extending the opening 104 into the chamber can minimize and/or prevent leaks through the opening 104. In some examples, forming the opening 104 from the base 112 with an extension into the chamber 106 can also make the device more comfortable to position and wear.
[0028] The fluid collection device 100 may be positioned such that the opening 104 surrounds the penis of the user. In other words, the base material at the opening 104 is configured to contact skin surrounding the penis of the user. Bodily fluid may enter the chamber of the fluid collection device 100 via the opening 104, via the penis. The fluid collection device 100 may be configured to receive the fluid(s) into the chamber 106 via the opening 104. In some embodiments, the base 112 may be configured to be attached to the individual, such as adhesively attached (e.g., with a hydrogel adhesive) to the individual. An example suitable adhesive may be a hydrogel layer.
[0029] The tube 110 can be connected to the fluid outlet 108. The tube 110 may be used to remove fluid from the chamber 106. The tube 110 may include a tube inlet connected to the fluid outlet 108 and a tube outlet (not shown) positioned downstream from the tube inlet. The tube outlet may be operably coupled to a fluid storage container, described in more detail below. In some embodiments, the tube 110 may include a flexible material such as plastic tubing (e.g., medical tubing). Such plastic tubing may include a thermoplastic elastomer, polyvinyl chloride, ethylene vinyl acetate, polytetrafluoroethylene, etc., tubing. The tube 110 may include silicon or latex. In some embodiments, the tube 110 may include one or more portions that are resilient, such as to by having one or more of a diameter or wall thickness that allows the conduit to be flexible.
[0030] Referring back to FIGS. 1A and IB, the fluid collection device 100 also includes one or more fasteners or securement elements configured to secure the one or more straps 120 to the fluid collection device 100. In some examples, the durable fastener 118 can include a loop fastener 122. The loop fastener 122 can include a simple extension of the durable fastener 118 or a hole in the durable fastener 118 that the one or more straps 120 can extend through to secure the fluid collection device 100 to the user. In some examples, the fluid impermeable shell 102 can include a loop fastener 122. In other examples, the loop fastener 122 can include a strap portion secured to the durable fastener 118 with the loop fastener disposed at the end of the strap.
[0031] As shown in FIG. IB, the one or more straps 120 can include a waist strap 120a and one or more thigh straps 120b. The waist strap 120a can be secured to an upper portion of the distal region 114 of the fluid collection device 100. The waist strap 120a can be configured to fit around a waist or hips of the user 150. In some examples, the waist strap 120a is releasably secured or securable to the fluid collection device 100. In some embodiments, the waist strap 120a is fixedly secured to the fluid collection device 100. In either manner, the one or more straps 120 are always connected to the distal region 114 of the fluid collection device to avoid direct contact between the straps and the testicles of the user 150. The straps are configured to not contact the testicles to avoid discomfort to the user 150 in the case of swollen or sensitive testicles.
[0032] In FIG. 1C, the one or more straps 120 can include a waist strap 121 and one or more thigh straps 120a and 120b. However, in some examples, the waist strap 121 can be a belt round the waist of the user and the thigh straps 120a and 120b can be secured to the waist strap 121 to keep the fluid collection device 100 in place. The waist strap 121 can be configured to fit around a waist or hips of the user 150. In some examples, the thigh straps 120a and 120b can extend from the durable fastener 118 (shown in FIG. 2B) to connect to the waist strap 121. In other examples, an upper portion and lower portion of the fluid collection device 100 can connect to the thigh straps 120a and 120b. In some embodiments, the thigh straps 120a and 120b is fixedly secured to the fluid collection device 100. The waist strap 121 can be made of stretchable and/or elastic material or can include an adjustable fastener such as a loop and hook fastener, a buckle, and or snap fastener. In some examples, the waist strap can be extendable. In all manners of attachment, the one or more straps 120 are always connected to the distal region 114 of the fluid collection device to avoid direct contact between the straps and the testicles of the user 150. The straps are configured to not contact the testicles to avoid discomfort to the user 150 in the case of swollen or sensitive testicles.
[0033] As another embodiment shown in FIG. ID, the one or more straps 120 can include a waist strap 121 and one or more thigh straps 120a and 120b. In some examples, the one or more thigh straps 120a and 120b can be secured to an adhesive pad 125. In some examples, the waist strap 121 can also be secured to the adhesive pad 125. For example, the waist strap 121 can be configured to fit around a waist or hips of the user 150 and secure to the adhesive pad 125. In some examples, the waist strap 121 is not included and the first end of the thigh straps 120a and 120b are secured or securable to the fluid collection device 100 and the second end attach to the adhesive pad 125. In some embodiments, the straps 120 attach to the adhesive pad with an adhesive. In other examples, the adhesive pad 125 can include a first surface having an adhesive that attached to the skin of the user 150. The second surface (i.e., the outer surface) of the adhesive pad 125 can include another suitable fastener method to attach the straps 120 to the adhesive pad 125. For example, the straps 120 and the adhesive pad 125 can attach together as a hook and loop fastener. In other examples, the adhesive pad 125 can include a button fastener. In either manner, the one or more straps 120 are connected to the distal region 114 of the fluid collection device to avoid direct contact between the straps and the testicles of the user 150. The straps can then be secured to the adhesive pad 125 by any suitable method.
[0034] Referring to FIGS. 2B-2C, in some embodiments, the waist strap 120a may be elastic or otherwise stretchable to stretch and fit around the waist or hips of the user 150. In some embodiments, the waist strap 120a may include a fastener 124 configured to fasten two portions or ends of the waist strap 120a together to fit the waist strap 120a around the waist of the user 150. The fastener 124 may include a slide adjuster clips, hook and loop fasteners, buttons, snaps, a zipper, magnets, clasps ultrasonic welding, or any other fastener. In some embodiments, the size of the waist strap 120a is adjustable using one or more of the fasteners described herein. The waist strap 160 also may include both an elastic or stretchable material and one or more fasteners. In some embodiments, the waist strap 120a may include a generally flat strap or band.
[0035] The fluid collection device 100 can also include one or more thigh straps 120b. The thigh straps 120b can be configured to fit around the one or more thighs of the user 150. In some embodiments, the one or more thigh straps 120b includes two thigh straps each configured to wrap around different thigh of the user 150. For example, the two thigh straps 120b and the fluid collection device 100 may form two distinct loops each configured to wrap or extend around a different thigh of the user 150. The fluid collection device 100 can be positioned between the two loops. In some embodiments, the two thigh straps 120b may include a single continuous strap secured to the fluid collection device 100 in two regions to form, with the fluid collection device 100, the two distinct loops. In some embodiments, the two thigh straps 120b include two different straps each secured or securable to the fluid collection device 100 to form the two distinct loops.
[0036] In some embodiments, the one or more thigh straps 120b may be elastic or otherwise stretchable to stretch to fit around the thighs of the user 150. In some embodiments, the one or more thigh straps 120b may include a fastener 126 configured to fasten two portions or ends of the one or more thigh straps 120b together to fit the one or more thigh straps 120b around one or more thighs of the user 150. The fastener 126 may include a slide adjuster, clips, hook and loop fasteners, buttons, snaps, a zipper, magnets, clasps, ultrasonic welding, or any other fastener. In some embodiments, the size of the one or more thigh straps 120b can be adjustable using one or more of the fasteners described herein. The one or more thigh straps 120b also may include both an elastic or stretchable material and one or more fasteners. At least one or both of the one or more thigh straps 120b and the waist strap 120a may be detachably secured or securable to the fluid collection device 100 such that the fluid collection device 100 may be used with different thigh straps 120b and/or waist straps 120a, such as different sizes of thigh straps 120b and/or waist straps 120a. Moreover, if at least one of the thigh straps 120b or the waist strap 120a becomes defective or soiled, the at least one of the thigh straps 120b or the waist strap 120a may be replaced with a new thigh strap 120b or waist strap 120a without disposing of the fluid collection device 100.
[0037] FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a fluid collection system 300 for fluid collection, according to an embodiment. The system 300 includes a fluid collection device 302, a fluid storage container 304, and a vacuum source 306. The fluid collection device 302, the fluid storage container 304, and the vacuum source 306 may be fluidly coupled to each other via one or more conduits. For example, as illustrated, the conduits may include a first conduit 308a extending from the fluid collection device 302 to the fluid storage container 304 and a second conduit 308b extending from the fluid storage container 304 to the vacuum source 306.
[0038] In an embodiment, the first conduit 308a can be any of the conduit and tube embodiments described above. In an embodiment, the fluid collection system 300 may include at least one other conduit (not shown) in addition to the first conduit 308a and/or the second conduit 308b. In an example, the first conduit 308a may be in direct fluid communication with the fluid collection assembly 302 and may extend from the fluid collection device 302 only part of the distance between the fluid collection device 302 and the fluid storage container 304. As such, the fluid collection system 300 may include a conduit that is connected to the outlet of the first conduit 308a and extends from the first conduit 308a to the fluid storage container 304.
[0039] The fluid collection device 302 may be similar or identical to any of the fluid collection assemblies disclosed herein in one or more aspects. The fluid collection device 302 may include a fluid impermeable shell at least defining a chamber, an opening, and a fluid outlet. The opening of the fluid collection device disposed at a base of the chamber and the base is configured to contact skin surrounding a penis of a user. The base can include a polymeric material disposed around the opening and a tube in fluid communication with the fluid outlet. The tube can include the first conduit 308a. The fluid collection device 302 also includes one or more straps connected to a distal region of the fluid impermeable shell, the one or more straps configured to wrap around the user to secure the fluid collection device to the user.
[0040] The fluid storage container 304 is sized and shaped to retain the bodily fluids therein. The fluid storage container 304 may include a bag (e.g., drainage bag), a bottle or cup (e.g., collection jar), or any other enclosed container for storing bodily fluids such as urine. In some examples, the first conduit 308a may extend from the fluid collection assembly 302 and attach to the fluid storage container 304 at a first point therein. The second conduit 308b may attach to the fluid storage container 304 at a second point thereon and may extend and attach to the vacuum source 306. Accordingly, a vacuum (e.g., suction) may be drawn through fluid collection assembly 302 via the fluid storage container 304. Fluid, such as urine, may be drained from the fluid collection assembly 302 using the vacuum source 306.
[0041] The vacuum source 306 may include one or more of a manual vacuum pump, and electric vacuum pump, a diaphragm pump, a centrifugal pump, a displacement pump, a magnetically driven pump, a peristaltic pump, or any pump configured to produce a vacuum. The vacuum source 306 may provide a vacuum or suction to remove fluid from the fluid collection assembly 302. In some examples, the vacuum source 306 may be powered by one or more of a power cord (e.g., connected to a power socket), one or more batteries, or even manual power (e.g., a hand operated vacuum pump). In some examples, the vacuum source 306 may be sized and shaped to fit outside of, on, or within the fluid collection assembly 302. For example, the vacuum source 306 may include one or more miniaturized pumps or one or more micro pumps. The vacuum source 306 may include one or more of a switch, a button, a plug, a remote, or any other device suitable to activate the vacuum source 306.
[0042] FIG. 4 is a flow diagram of a method 400 to collect fluid, according to some embodiments. The method 400 of collecting fluid may utilize use any of the fluid collection devices and/or fluid collection systems disclosed herein. The method 400 may include act 410, which recites “positioning a fluid collection device at least proximate to a urethra of a user by attaching the fluid collection device to skin surrounding a penis.” Act 410 may be followed by act 420, which recites “positioning one or more straps around the user.”
[0043] Acts 410 and 420 of the method 400 are for illustrative purposes. For example, the acts 410 and 420 of the method 400 may be performed in different orders, split into multiple acts, modified, supplemented, or combined. In an example, one or more of the acts 410 or 420 of the method 400 may be omitted from the method 400. Any of the acts 410 or 420 may include using any of the fluid collection assemblies or systems disclosed herein.
[0044] In some examples, act 410 may include placing the penis of the user through the opening in the fluid collection device. In other examples, act 410 may include positioned a base of a fluid collection device 100 over a penis such that the male urethra is positioned adjacent to an opening of the base, such that at least a portion of the penis is positioned in the chamber of the fluid collection assembly.
[0045] Act 420 recites, “positioning one or more straps around the user.” In some examples, positioning one or more straps around the user can include positioning a waist strap around the user or positioning one or more thigh straps around the user. In some examples, both waist and thigh straps are positioned around the user and adjusted appropriately. In some examples, the waist strap and/or the thigh straps can be adjustable and include fasteners configured to tighten the straps to the waist and/or thigh of the user. In some examples, the waist and/or thigh straps include an elastic material and do not include further fasteners.
[0046] Act 430 recites, securing one or more straps to the device. Act 430 is optional and depends on whether the one or more straps are releasably secured or securable to the distal region of the fluid collection device. In some examples, the one or more straps can be connected to the device to secure the device to the user. In some examples, the one or more straps are fixedly secured to the distal region of the fluid collection device. As such, the user or caregiver properly adjusts the straps or configures the device to ensure comfort of the user.
[0047] Act 440 recites, “receiving fluid discharged from the user in the fluid collection device.” In some examples, receiving bodily fluids from the user in the fluid collection device includes receiving the bodily fluids through the opening of the fluid collection device. Receiving fluid from the person into a chamber of the fluid collection assembly may include flowing the bodily fluids to a gravimetrically low point of the chamber, etc., such as via gravity, wicking, or capillary action.
[0048] Act 450 recites, “using a pump to pull a vacuum through a tube in fluid communication with the outlet of the fluid collection device.” The suction force may be introduced into the chamber of the fluid collection device via the first open end of the tube responsive to a suction (e.g., vacuum) force applied at the second end of the tube. The suction force may be applied to the second open end of the tube by a portable or permanent vacuum source either directly or indirectly. A vacuum e.g., suction) may be drawn through the fluid collection device via a fluid storage container. Fluid, such as urine, may be drained from the fluid collection device using the vacuum source.
[0049] In an example, the method 400 may include Act 460, which recites, “receiving fluid discharged from the fluid collection device in a fluid collection container.” The bodily fluids may be removed from the fluid collection assembly via the tube and the fluid collection device may be fluidly coupled to the tube. The fluid collection device may include any of the fluid storage systems and/or containers disclosed herein.
[0050] While various aspects and embodiments have been disclosed herein, other aspects and embodiments are contemplated. The various aspects and embodiments disclosed herein are for purposes of illustration and are not intended to be limiting.
[0051] Terms of degree (e.g., “about,” “substantially,” “generally,” etc.) indicate structurally or functionally insignificant variations. In an example, when the term of degree is included with a term indicating quantity, the term of degree is interpreted to mean ± 10%, ±5%, or +2% of the term indicating quantity. In an example, when the term of degree is used to modify a shape, the term of degree indicates that the shape being modified by the term of degree has the appearance of the disclosed shape. For instance, the term of degree may be used to indicate that the shape may have rounded corners instead of sharp corners, curved edges instead of straight edges, one or more protrusions extending therefrom, is oblong, is the same as the disclosed shape, etc.