as a predialysis pt

[BRANDY]

Should I as of now , (at 21%CKD)  should I not let nurses take blood from arm, or from hand only , to take care of veins I have. In case they may need them in the future

[Razman]

I would always have them take blood from the opposite arm , if the fistula will be in your left arm then always have blood taken form the right.

[RCA]

My mom is going to get the PD catheter put in by the surgeon told us NEVER let anyone put needles where you'll have the fistula placed.  He said that is our "insurance policy" for the future.  You'll have to protect your arm : ) 

[RichardMEL]

Correct. Usual policy is put the fistula/graft in your non-peferred arm (eg: if you're right handed, they use your left arm, if you're left handed they use your right arm) and then you put your watch and get needles (well, non dialysis needles obviously!) in your preferred arm (ie: non fistula arm).

Should you start doing it prior to getting the fistula done? Good question.. I suppose it can't hurt. I was never told to do anything like that though prior to the surgery.

[monrein]

Yep, start saving the fistula arm now.  No bloods or BPs on it and try not to cut off the circulation while sleeping.

[idahospud]

My gfr is 18 and the Dr. has toled me not to let blood dross or bp in my right arme . my vanes are bad as it is but I think its better to be safe than sorry with are vanes

[BRANDY]

Thanks for your time in a response.  I sure want to keep what veins I have in good shape  My gfr is 21 right now   I am getting bllod drawn in 2 days I feel as if it has dropped more,  maybe not   I am to seee dietician in 2 days also  my first visit, maybe I can finally learn what to eat  and what not to eat.   

[kellyt]

I agree.  Months before I was scheduled for my 1st fistula my doctor said no BP's or needles in my left arm.  Not even shots.  Nothing!  Protect your arm before you get your fistula.

My poor right arm probably hates me, but I had to do what I had to do.   

[BRANDY]

Just letting you guys know that my GFR went back up to  24%  but I have some tests numbers  I dont understand  hope ,  I have searched the web and cant find answers  my Albumin Creat Ratio is 1831  what does that mean  and my pth is 148  which it is high  what does this mean   and also  should I be concerned about this   my neph  didnt mention these tests.  He just told  my stay off salt  Helpme figure this out please

[twirl]

probably take blood in your left arm if you are right handed
then when hooked up you can use your dominate hand