WARNING SIGNS FOR GRAFTS AND FISTULAS
- Prolonged bleeding from access after dialysis - over 20 minutes
- Change from a "buzz" or vibration felt over the graft or fistula to a pounding pulse
- More than one episode of infiltration or bruising around the graft or fistula
- Poor dialysis (insufficient clearance, recirculation) due to low flows
- A trend toward decreasing blood flows in a graft or fistula
- Elevated venous pressures on dialysis
- Swelling of the hand or arm on the side of the graft or fistula
- Development of "new veins" or popping out of old veins
- Pain in the graft or fistula
- Swellings in the graft or fistula
Call these signs to the attention of your nephrologist or dialysis center, or call Michigan Vascular Access (248-355-1100) for a prompt evaluation
DO NOT WAIT FOR YOUR GRAFT TO BLOW OR CLOT!!!!
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