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The patient has just returned from having an arteriovenous fistula placed. The patient asks, “When will they be able to use this and take this other catheter out?” The nurse should reply,

  • A. “It can be used immediately, so the catheter can come out anytime.”
  • B. “It will take 2 to 4 weeks to heal before it can be used.”
  • C. “The fistula will be usable in about 4 to 6 weeks.”
  • D. “The fistula was made using graft material, so it depends on the manufacturer.”
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: “The fistula will be usable in about 4 to 6 weeks.” This is because arteriovenous fistulas typically require a maturation period of 4 to 6 weeks before they can be used for dialysis. During this time, the fistula will develop into a strong, durable access point for hemodialysis.

Choice A is incorrect because the fistula needs time to mature before it can be used, and immediate use may damage it. Choice B is incorrect as it underestimates the maturation period required. Choice D is incorrect as the maturation time does not depend on the manufacturer but on the patient's physiology and healing process.