How easily could a fistula pop?

[gothiclovemonkey]

Im pretty sure it hasnt actually popped, but somethings not right...
But,  Can clamps pop a fistula? or dislodge a stent? Or something like that?? I never use the clamps, but I was really out of it yesterday, so they decided it would be best... When she applied the second clamp, i felt pain around the area that my stent was placed,(up near my shoulder/chest area.)  when the clamp was removed though the pain went eased for a little bit. Last night, after Id taken my nap when I got home, I was in pain there full force again, and it hasnt eased since. Whats really strange, if I take a deep breath, it is even more painful.
I dont really want to do ER (its sunday...) so I am wondering if it can wait? If I should be concerned? There doesnt seem to be any noticeable bruising. Just hurts.

[thegrammalady]

i've been told that two clamps should never be used. clamp one site, tape it off then pull the 2nd needle. just tell the tech no! i'd head for the er, sunday or not, my concern would be a blood clot. hope all will be ok. keep us up to date.

[monrein]

You really should go to the ER, glm.  They definitely should not have used 2 clamps at once and clamps raise the risk of clots quite substantially.  Obviously clotting is a big concern and you don't want to risk that fistula.  I would not allow them to use clamps in the future.


http://www.esrdnetwork6.org/utils/va/ClampPolicy.pdf

http://kidneyschool.org/m08/19/

[gothiclovemonkey]

Hmm, considering I already have a clot in that very spot.... that doesnt sound too good.
Why do they do that then?!? Ive always seen 2 clamps at once... Why in the heck would they risk that?!
jeez, cant a girl catch a break?!

[Lexxtech18]

Some techs just aren't as knowledgeable, I guess. It's no excuse, of course, but if something happens to your fistula it's hopefully on their conscience. I'd suggest going to ER and at least having a work up done, maybe a d-dimer drawn to check for clots. It may give a false positive as d-dimers sometimes do with D patients but that could give good reason for a CT or something. Don't take any risks when it comes to your lifeline, babe. We want you around for a long, long time. 

[geoffcamp]

Please go to the ER!!  I've had this happen to me. You may have thrown a clot in to your lungs!!  Pulmonary embolism. Are you having trouble breathing??  It sound just like what happened to me. They said I was very lucky to have gone to ER. Please don't wait if you have not gone yet. Take it seriously it could save your life.

[M3Riddler]

Im pretty sure it hasnt actually popped, but somethings not right...
But,  Can clamps pop a fistula? or dislodge a stent? Or something like that?? I never use the clamps, but I was really out of it yesterday, so they decided it would be best... When she applied the second clamp, i felt pain around the area that my stent was placed,(up near my shoulder/chest area.)  when the clamp was removed though the pain went eased for a little bit. Last night, after Id taken my nap when I got home, I was in pain there full force again, and it hasnt eased since. Whats really strange, if I take a deep breath, it is even more painful.
I dont really want to do ER (its sunday...) so I am wondering if it can wait? If I should be concerned? There doesnt seem to be any noticeable bruising. Just hurts.

Clams should not be used. Not only can they damage the fistula by putting too much pressure on them, but are also known to come undone. They use many clamps on the elderly who may not be mobile and they walk away for a while. The patient then may make a sudden move and the clamps can come undone causing severe bleeding.   Hold your own sites when possible. If unable, the nurse or tech should hold them for you... This is part of their job...   Refuse Clamps!!!