Certified Hemodialysis Technologist/Technician Exam Vascular Access and Cannulation 2

Question 1

What minimum needle gauge is required to achieve blood flow rates of 400-500 mL/min during hemodialysis?

Accepted Answer

16-17 gauge

Answer

16-17 gauge needles are standard for hemodialysis to allow blood flow rates of 300-500 mL/min without excessive hemolysis or pressure.

Question 2

When assessing a newly placed AV graft, how long should the technician typically wait before the first cannulation?

Accepted Answer

2-3 weeks

Answer

AV grafts typically require 2-3 weeks of healing before first cannulation to allow incorporation and reduce risk of hematoma or infection.

Question 3

Dialysis steal syndrome occurs when:

Accepted Answer

Too much blood flows through the access, reducing distal limb perfusion

Answer

Steal syndrome occurs when arterial blood is diverted preferentially into the AVF/graft, reducing perfusion to the hand and causing ischemia.

Question 4

After removing hemodialysis needles, how long should manual pressure typically be held to achieve hemostasis on an AVF?

Accepted Answer

5-15 minutes

Answer

Manual pressure of 5-15 minutes is typically required after needle removal from an AVF to achieve adequate hemostasis without compromising the access.

Question 5

Which finding on physical examination of a central venous catheter (CVC) exit site requires immediate intervention?

Accepted Answer

Purulent drainage, redness, and warmth at exit site

Answer

Purulent drainage with redness and warmth at a CVC exit site indicates infection requiring immediate evaluation, culture, and likely catheter removal.

Certified Hemodialysis Technologist/Technician Exam Practice Test

Certified Hemodialysis Technologist/Technician Exam Practice Test

Certified Hemodialysis Technologist/Technician Exam Vascular Access and Cannulation 2