What should not be measured in an extremity with a dialysis fistula?

In the context of a dialysis fistula, the measurement that should typically be avoided is brachial blood pressure. This is primarily because the vascular access created for hemodialysis, which is usually in the forearm or upper arm, can be compromised by the use of a blood pressure cuff for brachial readings. Measuring blood pressure can cause injury to the fistula by exerting pressure that might lead to thrombosis or decreased function of the fistula.

Other measurements, such as digital systolic pressure, ankle-brachial index, and carotid artery pressure, either do not interact directly with the fistula site or are taken at different locations that do not risk harm to the dialysis access. Therefore, avoiding brachial blood pressure measurements helps preserve the integrity and functionality of the dialysis fistula.