NxStage soon

[Jayy]

So, I'm going to train for NxStage machine soon and do dialysis at home but my major problem with this is doing the self-cannulation part. I already know I'm going to struggle just holding the needle because I can't even inject myself with the Aranesp shot, what more of self-cannulating with the HD needles. I'm petrified just thinking about it, what if I mess up causing my fistula to swell and blood clot? Which has already happened before when my fistula was still new and it was really dang painful.

My hands are already shaky as it is and with nervousness it'd be almost similar to the "flash" phasing through walls.

How did you manage to calm yourself with your first AV fistula self-cannulation?
Need some advice and tricks, Thank you

[GA_DAWG]

Wish I could help, but that is why I go to the dialysis center.

[cassandra]

Hi Jayy I get you, took me to get to 'the point' too. Just thinking about the times of infiltrations by other people made me 'angry' enough, thinking of the realisation that the chance of living longer on D with a pretty good quality of life, concentrating on the needle, using Emla spray/creme made me do it. Oh and I took some Diazepam 


Just feel the fistula (where it's going, how deep and thick it is) and concentrate on how and at which angle you're going to stick it in.


You can do it, get to the point, and smash it, and you'll feel brilliant for it.


Good luck my friend, let us know how you get on.


Lots of love, Cas

[kickingandscreaming]

I'm with you, Jayy.  That's why I do PD.  Really don't understand why anyone (with a choice- some don't have a choice) would choose self-inflicted HD.  My mind just can't stretch that far.

[Cowdog]

Jayy,
I've been self cannulating for about 8 years. I am assuming you are doing in center now. If so I'm also assuming you have at least one and probably two or three go to stickers that you trust.
Google "Stuart Mott Tandem Cannulation". You will see a PDF with basically that title. Print that PDF and take it to your favorite sticker. Using Stuart's methods as a guideline I suspect you and your sticker can come up with a plan to get you going on your own.
You will do fine. It's all mind over matter. Get control in your mind and the rest won't matter.
BTW when sticking myself the needles don't hurt. I've never used any creams or sprays.