Certified Hemodialysis Technician Practice Exam 2026 - Free Hemodialysis Technician Practice Questions and Study Guide

The likelihood of clotting is highest in the catheter access method compared to other options. Central venous catheters, which are often used for hemodialysis, have a higher propensity for clot formation due to several factors. These include turbulence in blood flow as it enters and exits the catheter, the foreign body effect of the catheter material within the bloodstream, and the tendency for blood to pool at the catheter tip.

In contrast, arteriovenous fistulas and grafts are designed to promote smoother, more natural blood flow. Fistulas, formed by connecting an artery directly to a vein, generally have lower rates of clotting because of the high blood flow rates and the natural dilation of the vein. Grafts, which involve using a synthetic material to connect an artery and vein, are less likely to clot compared to catheters, although they can still become occluded.

Thus, catheters have a higher risk of clotting due to their design and the dynamics of blood flow, making them the method most likely to experience this issue.