Patent attributes
In certain instances, an access system includes a connector to couple with a closed intravenous catheter system that includes a valve and a catheter tube. The access system can include a reinforcement member fixedly secured to the connector so as to be immobile relative thereto and oriented such that when the connector is coupled with the closed intravenous catheter system, a distal tip of the reinforcement member is at or proximally spaced from a proximal surface of the valve. The access system can include a cannula movable relative to the reinforcement member from a retracted position to an advanced position. At least a portion of the cannula can be advanced distally through the reinforcement member and then through the valve and subsequently into the catheter tube as the cannula is transitioned from the retracted position to the advanced position.