The 10-second assessment is something we can use to identify stenosis in a Fistula.
* Stenosis = narrowing of the vessel. 🤓
👉 It's something very simple, but very powerful!
If done every treatment day we can help identify access problems in the early stages.
** Important: only done on arteriovenous fistulas **
⚠️ Let's help our patients live as long and full as they can by offering quality care.
Steps:
- Look at the patient's fistula with the hand in normal position. It should look full.
- Ask the patient to lift the arm above the head and look at the fistula. It should collapse and feel flat and softer to the touch.
- Ask the patient to lower the arm below the head. The fistula should go back to normal. It looks full (not collapsed) and it feels harder to the touch.
If the fistula does not behave like described in these instructions, please report to the Nurse, Vascular access manager, Nephrologist or Vascular access surgeon.