How to Stick Dialysis Needles

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: The needle should be held by the wings with the bevel facing upward.

   This places the cutting edge of the needle on the skin which facilitates cannulation (sticking) through the skin, subcutaneous tissue, and the graft (an artificial blood vessel used to surgically connect an artery and vein) wall or fistula vessel wall.
2. 2

   Step 2: The needle should be held at a 25 to 35 degree angle for cannulation of AVFs (Arteriovenous Fistula).

   , The purpose is to create a flap in the graft wall at the puncture site which forms a type of valve when the needle is withdrawn. , Continue to advance the needle no more than 1⁄8 inch (0.3 cm), level out and advance the needle slowly up to the hub(the end of the needle). , A band aid should then be placed over the insertion site.
3. 3

   Step 3: The needle should be held at a 45 degree angle for cannulation of grafts.

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   Step 4: Once the needle has been advanced through the graft or AVF wall

5. 5

   Step 5: a flashback (blood pumping back and forth in the needle) should be visible.

6. 6

   Step 6: After the needle is properly placed secure it with a 6" piece of tape that will cross over the wings in an "X".

Detailed Guide

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