A nurse is caring for a client on hemodialysis who is experiencing muscle cramps during the procedure. Which intervention should the nurse implement?

A. Correct. Using the arm with the AV fistula for blood pressure measurements can compress the vascular access and compromise blood flow. It is important to avoid using the fistula arm for blood pressure measurements and venipuncture.

B. Incorrect. The AV fistula should not be used for intravenous catheter insertion to prevent potential damage and infection to the access site.

C. Incorrect. Self-cannulation of the AV graft is typically performed by healthcare professionals, and clients should not attempt to self-cannulate their vascular access.

D. Incorrect. If an AV fistula starts bleeding, the client should not apply pressure to the site. Instead, they should immediately elevate the arm and apply pressure to the bleeding site with a clean cloth or bandage while seeking medical attention.

QUESTIONS

A) This statement is incorrect. While administering an antibiotic may be necessary if peritonitis is confirmed, it should not be done without obtaining a sample for testing first.

B) This statement is incorrect. Measuring vital signs and assessing for pain are essential aspects of client assessment, but they may not provide enough information to determine the cause of the cloudy drainage.

C) This statement is incorrect. Clamping the catheter may be necessary if peritonitis is suspected, but it should not be done without first obtaining a sample of the drainage for testing.

D) This statement is accurate. Cloudy drainage from the catheter site may indicate peritonitis, which is an infection of the peritoneal cavity. Obtaining a sample of the drainage for culture and sensitivity testing can help identify the presence of infection and guide appropriate treatment.