What type of device is placed in a client with sudden kidney failure requiring immediate dialysis?

• A. Port-a-Cath
• B. Central venous catheter
• C. Arteriovenous fistula
• D. Peripheral IV line

Answer: (B)

For immediate dialysis, you need rapid, high-flow vascular access. A central venous catheter placed into a large central vein provides quick, temporary access suitable for hemodialysis. It can be inserted at the bedside and used right away, which is essential when dialysis must begin urgently.

A Port-a-Cath is implanted under the skin for long-term IV therapies and is not ideal for the immediate, high-flow demands of dialysis. An arteriovenous fistula is created surgically to provide durable access but requires weeks to months to mature before it can be used for dialysis. A peripheral IV line is small, short-term, and cannot support the high flow required for dialysis or repeated sessions.