An important nursing intervention for the patient with an arteriovenous fistula is to: Select all that apply)
Explanation & Rationale
A. Auscultate for a bruit every 8 hours: Listening for a bruit over the fistula helps detect blood flow and patency. Changes in the quality or absence of a bruit can indicate complications such as thrombosis. B. Use the fistula for blood draws: Using the fistula for venipuncture or IV access can damage the vascular access and increase the risk of infection or thrombosis. Alternative sites should be used for blood draws. C. Palpate for a bruit every 4 hours: Feeling for a thrill (vibratory sensation) provides direct assessment of blood flow through the fistula. Regular palpation helps ensure early detection of compromised circulation or clot formation. D. Palpate for the presence of a thrill every 8 hours: A palpable thrill confirms functional blood flow within the fistula. Routine assessment allows timely recognition of occlusion or other complications. E. Obtain blood pressure in the extremity that has fistula: Blood pressure should not be taken in the arm with the fistula, as cuff pressure can damage the access and reduce blood flow. This practice is contraindicated to protect vascular integrity.