A device for determining the depth of an incision from the epidermal layer
to a puncture in a blood vessel in which the device includes an elongated
member which has a lumen extending from a distal end to a proximal end.
The distal end of the elongated member is configured to locate the blood
vessel. After the device locates the blood vessel, a depth indicator is
positioned to mark the depth of the blood vessel. In one embodiment, the
elongated member includes a tapering interior surface which can receive a
portion of the blood vessel. An extending control member may extend from
the device at the distal end wherein the extending control member enters
the blood vessel before the device locates the vessel. Fluid from the
blood vessel enters the extending member through a vent hole and exits
through an opening at the proximal end of the device, thereby providing a
user with visual feedback that the device is moving in the desired
direction toward the blood vessel.