Dialysis Technician Practice Exam

In what direction should the venous line be placed during dialysis?

1. Retrograde

2. Autologous

3. Antegrade

4. Alternating

The correct answer is: Antegrade

During dialysis, the venous line should be placed in an antegrade direction. This means that the blood is returned to the patient's body in the same direction that it flows naturally from the body to the heart. This method ensures that the blood is returned efficiently and minimizes the risk of complications associated with improper blood flow direction. When the venous line is positioned antegrade, it helps to maintain proper hemodynamics, as blood flow through the circulatory system remains smooth and unobstructed. This positioning also reduces turbulence and the potential for clot formation within the circuit, which is crucial for the safety and effectiveness of the dialysis process. In contrast, retrograde placement would involve returning blood in the opposite direction, which is not anatomically correct and could lead to serious complications. Autologous and alternating lines refer to different practices or techniques that are not relevant to the standard positioning of the venous line during dialysis. Thus, antegrade alignment is the best practice for optimal patient outcomes during dialysis treatment.