arteriovenous fistula
Medical term Patient Preparation
A surgical joining of an artery and a vein, usually in the arm, for hemodialysis. That arm is never used for venipuncture, a tourniquet or a BP cuff.
Related terms
- arteryA vessel carrying blood away from the heart under high pressure. It pulses when palpated, which helps the…
- tourniquetBand tied 7 to 10 cm (3 to 4 in, about 4 to 5 finger widths) above the site to slow venous return so veins…
- veinA vessel that carries blood back toward the heart under low pressure. Superficial arm veins are the usual…
- venipunctureEntering a vein with a needle to withdraw blood, usually at the antecubital area of the arm.
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- arteriovenous graftA soft tube joining an artery and a vein under the skin for hemodialysis access; that arm is not used for…
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Study Patient Preparation