Apparatus (120) for a single, handheld device that provides for both insertion of a catheter (132) and collection of a fluid. The apparatus includes a needle (142) that assists in the insertion of the catheter into a blood vessel, and which includes a retraction feature (146) that protects the user from an accidental needle stick when the device is ready for disposal. Still further embodiments include a protective cover (163) that prevents a user from accidentally being stuck by a second needle (152) used for the introduction of the patient's blood into a collection device.
