Dialysis Technician Practice Exam

Which of the following are signs and symptoms of Steal Syndrome?

1. Pale, Bluish nail beds of the access hand

2. Severe headaches

3. Fatigue and weakness

4. Fluid retention

The correct answer is: Pale, Bluish nail beds of the access hand

Steal Syndrome is a condition that can occur in patients who have vascular access for hemodialysis, usually associated with arteriovenous (AV) fistulas or grafts. It is characterized by the diversion of blood flow away from the distal part of the limb used for access, often resulting in a range of symptoms. The correct answer highlights pale, bluish nail beds of the access hand. This symptom arises due to inadequate blood flow to the area beyond the site of the fistula. When the blood is shunted through the AV access instead of circulating normally, it can lead to decreased perfusion in the fingers and hand, resulting in the discoloration of the nail beds. This is a direct indicator that the blood supply to the extremity is compromised due to the presence of the vascular access, illustrating the vascular changes characteristic of Steal Syndrome. In contrast, other symptoms such as severe headaches, fatigue and weakness, and fluid retention are more general symptoms that can arise from various conditions in patients undergoing dialysis. They do not specifically signal the vascular compromise seen in Steal Syndrome and are therefore not directly indicative of this condition. These symptoms might relate to broader issues such as fluid overload, electrolyte imbalances, or other systemic effects of renal