The application relates to a closed specimen collection system (300) for blood samples. A collection tube (304) has a shaped nozzle (316) at a proximal end (308) adapted to fit sealably into a port (320) connected to a centrally inserted venal catheter (324). A cover (328) is attached to the collection tube (304) adjacent the proximal end (308). The container (352) has a hollow body (356), a front end (360) and a back end (364). The front end (360) has an aperture (368) sized and shaped to attach to the distal end (312) of the collection tube (304). A piston (372) fits closely within the hollow body and is attached to an actuating rod (376). When the port (320) is connected to the collection tube (304), the collection tube (304) is connected to the specimen container (352) and the actuating rod (376) is moved away from the front end (360) of the container (352), such that blood will flow into the specimen container (352) in a sterile condition.
