HESI CAT Exam 2024 Related

Review HESI CAT Exam 2024 related questions and content

A client with chronic kidney disease has an arteriovenous (AV) fistula in the left forearm. Which observation by the nurse indicates that the fistula is patent?

  • A. Distended, tortuous veins in the left hand
  • B. The left radial pulse is 2+ bounding
  • C. Auscultation of a thrill on the left forearm
  • D. Assessment of a bruit on the left forearm
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Auscultation of a thrill on the left forearm is the correct observation indicating that the AV fistula is patent. A thrill is a palpable vibration or buzzing sensation felt over the fistula, indicating the presence of blood flow. Choices A, B, and D do not directly assess the patency of the fistula. Distended, tortuous veins in the left hand may indicate venous hypertension; a bounding radial pulse could suggest increased blood flow through an artery, but it does not confirm fistula patency; assessment of a bruit indicates turbulent blood flow, but it does not confirm patency.