Vascular Access Management Flashcards
6 cards from real CHT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Vascular Access Management flashcards as text
Which type of vascular access is considered the gold standard for chronic hemodialysis?
Answer: Arteriovenous fistula (AVF)
The arteriovenous fistula is preferred because it has the lowest complication rates, longest patency, and best outcomes for long-term hemodialysis.
What is the minimum blood flow rate that a mature arteriovenous fistula should be able to support for adequate hemodialysis?
Answer: 350 mL/min
A mature AVF should sustain at least 350 mL/min blood flow to support effective hemodialysis treatment.
Where should the arterial needle be placed in relation to the venous needle when cannulating an AV fistula?
Answer: At least 2–3 cm upstream from venous needle (toward access)
The arterial needle is placed upstream (toward the anastomosis) and at least 2–3 cm from the venous needle to minimize recirculation.
A thrill that is weak or absent at the AV fistula site most likely indicates:
Answer: Stenosis or thrombosis of the fistula
Absence or weakening of the thrill (palpable vibration) suggests stenosis or clot formation reducing blood flow through the fistula.
What is the primary advantage of the buttonhole (constant-site) cannulation technique?
Answer: Reduced aneurysm formation and less pain with cannulation
The buttonhole technique creates a consistent scar tunnel that reduces pain and minimizes aneurysm formation compared to rope ladder cannulation.
Which complication is most commonly associated with tunneled central venous catheters used for hemodialysis?
Answer: Catheter-related bloodstream infection
Catheter-related bloodstream infection (CRBSI) is the most frequent and serious complication of tunneled dialysis catheters.