An access device (20) places a medical article within a body space of a patient. The device has a needle (22) that includes an elongated body (32), a side fenestration (56) on the elongated body, and a needle hub (34). The device further includes a dilator (24) disposed on and slideable along the elongated body of the needle and a medical article (26). The medical article is disposed on and slideable along the dilator. The dilator and the needle form one or more spaces (150) in communication with the side fenestration (56). At least portions of the dilator and the medical article are configured so as to allow visual determination of the presence of a bodily fluid within the space. The outer surface of the needle and the inner surface of the dilator can include a surfactant. Further, at least one of the needle and dilator can further comprise a vent in communication with the space that allows for the escape of air from the space and inhibits the escape of the bodily fluid from the space.