For a patient with renal dialysis and a shunt, what should not be done?

In patients undergoing renal dialysis with a shunt, it is critical to avoid placing the blood pressure cuff on the arm with the shunt. This is because the shunt is used for accessing the bloodstream during dialysis, and applying a cuff in this area can put undue pressure on the vascular access, potentially leading to complications such as clotting or thrombosis. It is important to protect the integrity of the shunt to ensure its proper function, and putting a cuff on that arm compromises that safety.

On the other hand, premedicating the patient before a procedure is a common practice to help alleviate anxiety or discomfort. Taking vital signs regularly, such as every hour, is also standard protocol to monitor the patient’s condition during treatment. Additionally, informing the patient about the procedure is essential for acquiring informed consent and ensuring the patient understands what to expect, which can help reduce anxiety and improve cooperation.