Final answer:
The second step in initiating hemodialysis treatment involves preparing the vascular access to ensure blood can be removed, cleaned and returned to the patient. Possible accesses include an arteriovenous fistula, an arteriovenous graft, or a central venous catheter. This step is critical before starting dialysis and requires careful monitoring for potential complications.
Step-by-step explanation:
This procedure ensures a reliable way for blood to be removed from the patient, purified through the dialysis machine, and then returned to the patient's bloodstream. Possible accesses include creating an arteriovenous fistula (AVF), placing an arteriovenous graft (AVG), or inserting a central venous catheter (CVC) if immediate access is necessary. The choice of access is determined based on several factors including the patient's condition, the urgency of starting dialysis, and the expected longevity of the treatment. Once the vascular access is established and healed, which may take several weeks for an AVF or AVG, the patient is then connected to the dialysis machine through this access. The dialysis machine will then filter the patient’s blood, removing waste products and excess fluid, a critical process for patients with kidney failure. It is important that the patient and healthcare team closely monitor for signs of potential access complications, such as infection or clotting, which are essential aspects of ongoing dialysis treatment management.