Certified Clinical Hemodialysis Technician (CCHT) Practice Exam

The type of access most likely to become clotted is the catheter. Catheters, particularly those used for hemodialysis, are typically placed in large central veins and can be associated with a higher risk of thrombosis compared to other access types. This increased risk is due to several factors, such as the design of catheters, the location in a less stable flow environment, and potential issues with blood flow and turbulence around the catheter, which can contribute to clot formation.

Fistulas and grafts are typically more stable blood access options for hemodialysis. A fistula, created by joining an artery and vein, tends to have a natural flow that reduces the likelihood of clotting due to the high blood flow and lower risk of turbulence. Grafts, while less optimal than fistulas, also typically maintain better patency compared to catheters because they are designed to allow a more consistent blood flow.

Both the anatomical issues and the nature of how blood flows through the access type make catheters more prone to clots, while fistulas are not only more resilient but also help preserve the patient's vascular health over time. Therefore, recognizing these characteristics is critical for effective clinical practices in managing hemodialysis access.