Devices and methods for extracting bodily fluid

A bodily fluid extraction device includes a penetration member configured for penetrating a target site and subsequently residing within the target site and extracting a bodily fluid sample. The penetration member includes a proximal end adapted for fluid communication with an analyte analysis system, a distal end, and a channel extending from the distal to the proximal end. The distal end includes a sharp portion for penetrating a target site, and a flexible feature adapted for promoting bodily fluid flow into the channel by protruding into the target site after the penetration member has penetrated the target site. A method for extracting bodily fluid includes providing a bodily fluid extraction device as described immediately above. Subsequently, a target site is penetrated with the distal end of the bodily fluid extraction device's penetration member and the flexible portion of the penetration member is caused to protrude into the target site and promote bodily fluid flow into the penetration member's channel. Bodily fluid (e.g., ISF) is then extracted from the target site (e.g., a dermal tissue target site) via the channel of the bodily fluid extraction device.