Certified Nephrology Nurse Certification (CNN) Practice Exam

Using a fistula for hemodialysis access offers significant advantages, particularly in terms of durability and longevity. A fistula, which is created by surgically connecting an artery to a vein, is specifically designed to withstand the repeated puncturing that occurs during hemodialysis sessions. This adaptation leads to fewer complications such as clotting and infection, which are more prevalent with other access methods like catheters or grafts.

The durability of a fistula also translates into longer-lasting access, often extending many years without the need for replacement, unlike other forms of vascular access that can require more frequent interventions or changes. As patient health outcomes can significantly improve with stable and reliable access, this quality underscores why a fistula is preferred.

While other options presented may have some merit, they do not capture the primary reason that makes fistulas a standard recommendation for hemodialysis access in terms of long-term efficacy and patient outcomes.