Access to the Bloodstream

Dialysis patients have numerous needs both because of their renal failure and the sheer necessity of regular treatment. Access to the bloodstream is one of these special needs in which all healthcare professionals should be well versed in order to best care for the dialysis patient. This access to the vein for dialysis treatment is called vascular access. It is accomplished by penetrating a blood vessel in such a way that the blood can leave the body, move through the dialysis machine and return to the body.

This resource addresses the different types of ways to access the veins and care for the access site that all healthcare professionals should be aware of and capable of performing.

After completing this resource, learners will be able to:

• Describe arteriovenous fistula (AVF) including special care needs and potential problems
• Explain patient assessment prior to cannulation and care after cannulation
• Identify alternatives to AVF
• Explain vascular access systems
• Identify the needles and equipment used for cannulation and proper needle placement
• List proper infection prevention techniques
• Explain the National Kidney Foundation's Kidney Disease outcomes Quality Initiative (NKF K/DOQITM) guidelines for vascular access