CDN Vascular Access Management 3

Question 1

What is the minimum acceptable blood flow rate (Qb) recommended for adequate hemodialysis through a permanent access?

Accepted Answer

300–400 mL/min

Answer

Effective hemodialysis typically requires blood flow rates of 300–400 mL/min through permanent access to achieve adequate solute clearance.

Question 2

How long should pressure be held at the cannulation site after needle removal at the end of dialysis?

Accepted Answer

5–10 minutes or until bleeding stops

Answer

Pressure should be held for 5–10 minutes or until hemostasis is achieved, as over-compression can occlude the access.

Question 3

Which laboratory finding would most suggest early AV fistula maturation failure?

Accepted Answer

Access blood flow less than 500 mL/min at 6 weeks

Answer

An access blood flow below 500 mL/min at six weeks post-creation indicates inadequate fistula maturation and may require intervention or alternative access planning.

Question 4

A patient with a forearm AV fistula reports hand pain, numbness, and coolness during dialysis. Which complication should the nurse suspect?

Accepted Answer

Steal syndrome

Answer

Hand pain, numbness, and coolness during dialysis in a patient with an AV fistula are classic signs of steal syndrome, where blood is diverted away from the distal extremity.

Question 5

What infection prevention measure is MOST important when caring for a central venous catheter (CVC) used for hemodialysis?

Accepted Answer

Use strict aseptic technique with mask and sterile gloves during hub access

Answer

Strict aseptic technique including mask and sterile gloves during catheter hub manipulation is the most critical measure to prevent catheter-related bloodstream infections.

CDN - Certified Dialysis Nurse Practice Test

CDN - Certified Dialysis Nurse Practice Test

CDN Vascular Access Management 3