What sign indicates a functioning arteriovenous fistula for dialysis?

• A. Bruit heard over the fistula
• B. Pain on palpation
• C. Redness along the arm
• D. Fever

Answer: (A)

An audible bruit over the fistula shows that arterial blood is flowing into the vein with good patency. That turbulent flow creates a sound you can hear with a stethoscope, indicating the access is functioning properly for dialysis. Often a palpable thrill—the vibrating sensation under the skin at the fistula site—also signals good flow, reinforcing that the fistula is working.

Pain on palpation, redness along the arm, or fever point to complications such as infection, inflammation, or thrombosis rather than normal function, so they’re not signs of a functioning fistula. If the bruit or thrill is absent or reduced, that could indicate a problem like stenosis or occlusion and warrants evaluation.