Dialysis Technician Practice Exam

True or False: Steal Syndrome may occur with AV fistulas or AV grafts.

1. True

2. False

3. Only with grafts

4. Only with fistulas

The correct answer is: True

Steal Syndrome occurs when there is an inadequate blood supply to a particular area of the body due to the diversion of blood flow by an arteriovenous (AV) fistula or graft. In essence, this happens when blood flow is rerouted from a distal artery to the fistula or graft, causing ischemia or reduced blood flow to the surrounding tissues. Both AV fistulas, which are created by connecting an artery directly to a vein, and AV grafts, which involve an artificial vessel that connects an artery to a vein, can lead to this condition because they both establish a low-resistance pathway for blood flow, potentially compromising the circulation to the hands or fingers, especially in situations where the blood flow is already compromised. Recognizing the potential for Steal Syndrome emphasizes the need for careful monitoring and assessment of patients with dialysis access sites. Understanding this concept is critical for dialysis technicians to ensure optimal patient outcomes and prevent complications associated with vascular access.