Guidelines and Resources
Provider Information
Vascular Access Quality Improvement Activity Information
Increasing the number of patients receiving dialysis via arteriovenous fistulas (AVF) and reducing long-term catheter (LTC) use for dialysis access is key to providing optimum care for your patients. A dialysis patient is identified as having a LTC when he or she has been dialyzed with a catheter for 90 days or longer, regardless of whether the catheter has been replaced.
Overcoming Roadblocks to Catheter Reduction Root Cause Analysis Tool PDF
The Fistula First Catheter Last (FFCL) site has information for both providers and patients about access care and improving outcomes. Included on this site are resources for you as the provider, your patients, and vascular surgeons.
The Networks are focusing on reducing the rate of LTCs at facilities with a rate of 10%.
Vascular Access Progress (VAP) Planning Resources:
VAP Worksheet
VAP Reporting Form
Vascular Access is an important part of your dialysis care. Having an access plan will guide you through the steps toward a fistula or graft, as well as how to check your access daily. The "One Minute Access Check" can help ensure that your access is functioning properly and avoid complications associated with access dysfunction.
- Fistula First-Dialysis Vascular Access Flyer English
- Fistula First-Dialysis Vascular Access Flyer Spanish
- Infection Prevention: Catheter Countdown
- Resources
Ready, Set, Go, The Steps to Catheter Freedom PDF
Vascular Access Guide (Stoplight) Trifold Booklet (English I Spanish)
Vascular Access Planning Guide for Professionals Booklet
Lifeline for a Lifetime: Planning for Your Vascular Access Booklet (English I Spanish)
Questions or Concerns About a Permanent Access? Let’s Talk Booklet
Vascular Access Comparisons: Fistula, Graft, Catheter Flyer (English I Spanish)
It Only Takes a Minute to Save Your Lifeline. Look, Listen Feel Guide BookletDoes this Look Normal? A Patient Guide to Infection Flyer (English I Spanish)
6 Tips to Prevent Dialysis Infections: Patients with Catheters, Fistulas or Grafts 2 sided leaflet
Lifeline for a Lifetime-How to Check Your Access
Dialysis Patients Speak: A Conversation About the Importance of AV Fistulas