Which is NOT a sign or symptom of an infected dialysis access?

• A. Numbness and tingling
• B. Redness around the access site
• C. Drainage from the access
• D. Pain at the access

Answer: (A)

Numbness and tingling are not caused by infection; infection around a dialysis access shows inflammatory signs and drainage. Redness around the access site, drainage (pus), and pain at the access are classic indications of an infection, reflecting local inflammation and tissue involvement. Numbness and tingling point more toward nerve irritation or impaired blood flow (such as neuropathy or steal syndrome) rather than infection. Therefore, the option describing numbness and tingling is the one that is not a sign of an infected access. If numbness or tingling accompanies other symptoms, evaluate for non-infectious complications while still monitoring for infection signs like redness, drainage, and pain.