Vascular Access

Vascular access refers to the surgical insertion of a fistula or graft to provide access to the bloodstream for dialysis.

Many dialysis patients have repeated problems with their vascular access, placing additional demands on the already-stretched health system. BC is the only province in Canada with provincial standards for vascular access creation, maintenance and repair.

Pamphlets

The following teaching pamphlets were prepared by the BCR Hemodialysis Committee (formerly the Provincial Vascular Access Services Team or PVAST) to educate patients about vascular access options and care of their vascular access sites.

Fistulas & grafts

Fistula

Fistula First - English, Punjabi, Chinese or Tagalog
Your Fistula - English, Simplified Chinese, Punjabi
Fistula exercises Before and After Surgery - English, Chinese, Punjabi

Graft

Your Graft - English, Chinese, Punjabi

Fistula and Graft

Bleeding Fistula or Graft: Emergency Measures - English, Chinese, Punjabi
Application of Topical Anaesthetic Prior to Cannulation of a Fistula or Graft - English, Chinese, Punjabi, Tagalog

Ways to Prevent Aneurysms

English, Chinese, Punjabi

Prevention of Vascular Access Disconnection/Needle Dislodgement

Buttonhole cannulation of fistulas

Considering Self-Cannulation

How to Self-Needle

Buttonhole Cannulation - Your Buttonhole Track

Buttonhole Vacation Instructions

Catheter

Prevention of Vascular Access Disconnection/Needle Dislodgement

Changing your own Catheter Dressing

Your Catheter

Showering with a Hemodialysis Catheter

*The information in our patient handout materials are provided for educational/information purposes, and to support discussion with your health care team about your medical condition and treatment. It does not constitute medical advice and should not substitute for advice given by your physician or other qualified health care professional.

Posters

Care of Your Fistula or Graft

Vein preservation

BC Renal has launched the Save the Veins campaign in order to educate patients and health care providers on vein preservation.

Printing large quantities

Note for renal care providers/vascular access coordinators: If you plan to print large quantities of these publications through your hospital print shop or other printing company, we can provide you with high resolution, press-ready copies. Please contact BC Renal at 604-875-7340 or by email.

Tab Heading

Provincial Health Services Authority