Certified Hemodialysis Technician Practice Exam

In hemodialysis, a common access site is a central venous catheter. This type of access allows for a direct path to the bloodstream, which is essential for the effective removal of blood for dialysis treatment. Central venous catheters can be inserted into large veins in the neck, chest, or groin and are ideal for short- to medium-term use in patients with kidney failure.

This method is particularly beneficial because it allows for the rapid flow of blood needed for dialysis and is often used in emergency situations or when other access sites are not available. The large diameter of central venous catheters reduces the risk of clotting and facilitates better dialysis efficiency.

Other access types mentioned—like subcutaneous ports ("B"), peripherally inserted central catheters (PICC) ("C"), and intravenous lines ("D")—may have specific uses within medical treatment but are not the standard primary access points for hemodialysis. While some of these access methods can be adapted for possible dialysis use, they do not typically serve as the first choice for regular hemodialysis sessions.