First successful cannulation

[Adam_W]

Today I had my most successful self-cannulation after three days of having some trouble. Before I got ready to stick, I used a marker to mark an X at the site of the stick, and a line along the graft in the direction that the needle was going so I would have a clear visual reference of exactly where I needed to place the needle and the exact angle and direction it needed to go. With that assistance, both needles went in smoothly and right where I wanted them. The EMLA works wonders as well. I could feel the needles going in, but there was absolutely no pain. Tomorrow I will do my first treatment at home using the graft. Also, does anyone else get really big, dark bruises around your fistula/graft after dialysis? Shortly after I pulled my needles, I noticed very dark bruises around my graft, and I noticed the same thing the last time I used it. They don't hurt, but they sure are ugly.

Adam

[Amanda From OZ]

Well done Adam... i have been cannulating for 2 years and i still sometimes get a few problems.... it just depends what type of Day I'm having.

In regards to the really big, dark bruises around your fistula/graft after dialysis, i was told i was not holding off long enough or hard enough.... you need to make sure you press down exactly at the right time to stop blood leaking out into the tissue.

Amanda
xxoo

[kitkatz]

Yes I have bruising regularly. Noone seems to worry about it unless your arm swells.

[charee]

well done adam i'm still trying

[Adam_W]

Here's my poor arm after four treatments with the graft. I guess I've kissed having a normal looking arm goodbye.

Adam

[jbeany]

Oh, I like the trick with drawing the graft on the arm.  I need to try that!

Congrats on doing it yourself!

[skyedogrocks]

Congrats Adam!  I think that has to be the hardest thing to do is self-cannulate.  Every now and then Rob has to work himself up to do it.  He is used to needles though, since he is a Type 1 diabetic.  But with the 15 needles, OMG they are huge.  I give everyone credit who does this!  I just can't do it for him though.  I am not comfortable and I know he definitely wouldn't be with me doing it either.

Who was doing your cannulation at home before this?

As far as the brusing.  We were told that happens when you infiltrate. 

[Adam_W]

Before I started cannulating, I was still using the chest catheter. The only other person who has cannulated my graft has been my training nurse, and she just stuck it a couple times. Now that the graft seems to be working well, and I'm comfortable sticking it, I plan to set up an appointment to have my catheter removed. It will be so good to get rid of that thing.

Adam

[tweetykiss]

Congratulations Adam.......I know I would be very nervous to do this to someone else as well as myself so you did well.......

[skyedogrocks]

If Rob could have done cartwheels, he would have, when he got his catheter removed for good.  He had a total of 5 in 6 months.  He kept getting infections, it was horrible.  The last infection landed him in the hospital.  It was due to the summer and he works outside.  Sweat and moisture don't mix for catheters.

I'm sure you can't wait to see that baby gone for good!