In addition to palpating a thrill, what other assessment is recommended for an AV graft?

• A. Auscultating a bruit.
• B. Checking distal pulses.
• C. Inspecting for edema.
• D. Measuring blood pressure at the graft.

Answer: (C)

Assessing AV graft patency relies on both a palpable thrill and an audible bruit. The thrill shows there is physical flow through the graft, while the bruit confirms turbulent blood flow within the access. Together, these signs help detect early problems like stenosis or impending thrombosis; if the thrill is present but the bruit diminishes or disappears, that change signals a potential issue needing prompt evaluation.

Inspecting for edema isn’t the standard way to gauge graft patency because swelling can arise from many other causes and doesn’t directly reflect how well the graft is functioning. In contrast, listening for a bruit directly assesses the flow through the graft. And remember, avoid taking blood pressure on the arm with the graft to protect the access.