AV Fistula / Graft Post-Operative Care Tips The arteriovenous (AV) access is your life line. You have a great responsibility to care for your AV Fistula / Graft. Please follow the recommended care advice: Daily care: •
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Please set a time table and make it a daily routine to check the buzzing sensation ideally before all mealtimes and bedtime. Check your access arm for color, temperature and appearance of the fistula.
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Please keep your access arm clean at all times.
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Protect your access arm from pressure: •
Do not wear jewellery, watch or tight sleeves on access arm.
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Do not sleep with your access arm under your head or body.
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Do not carry heavy objects with your access arm.
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Do not take blood or blood pressure on your access arm.
Report to your care team immediately when there is: •
Please wash your access arm before each dialysis treatment .
Absence of a buzzing sensation in your access arm.
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Please protect your access arm from cuts, bumps, direct blow and cold.
Redness and warmth in your access arm.
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Swelling or large lump in your access arm.
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Unusual pain not relieved by painkillers.