Detecting hemodialysis vascular access stenosis: a tracking tool.

A tool for tracking indicators of hemodialysis vascular access stenosis is described to facilitate documentation of early signs of stenosis. Prompt notification of the nephrologist, and referral to an interventional radiologist for percutaneous transluminal angioplasty may prevent more costly interventions or hospitalizations, and even loss of the permanent access. Inadequate dialysis and its complications may be avoided by nursing observation and documentation of indicators known to be predisposing factors to hemodialysis vascular access stenosis.