Vascular Access Procedures for Dialysis Staff

• Cannulation of the Arteriovenous Fistula (AVF) - DVD developed by the Fistula First Breakthrough Initiative, which offers all staff 2 FREE CE’s. This DVD distributed in November 2007 is available on the Fistula First Website!
• Cannulation of a New AVF
  Describes the recommended steps for cannulation of a new AVF using small gauge needles and low blood flow. The procedure includes step-by-step progression of needle gauge and blood flow as the new AVF matures.
• Secondary AV Fistulas in Patients with AV Grafts
  "Sleeves Up" – Protocol for identifying patients with AV grafts with outflow veins that could be converted into secondary AV fistulas.
• Use of Clamps on Cannulation Sites Post-Dialysis
  Guidelines for proper use of clamps on cannulation sites post-dialysis for AV grafts and well-developed AV fistulas. Cautions that clamps should NEVER be used on a new or maturing AV fistula.
• Cannulation Camp: Basic Needle Cannulation Training for Dialysis Staff
  Article by Deborah Brouwer, RN, CNN, reviews basic AVF and AVG cannulation skills.
• Self-Cannulation of Vascular Access Procedure
  Article to promote self-care for those who have mature accesses from the National Vascular Access Improvement Initiative (NVAII) Tools and Resources Sub-committee.