Dialysis Catheter Procedures

Dialysis catheters are soft plastic tubes placed into a large central vein—usually in the neck, chest, or groin. They are used when immediate dialysis is needed or when other access types are not yet ready or possible. Catheters allow blood to flow to and from the dialysis machine. They are intended for short term use, but are sometimes used longer-term when needed.

• Temporary Catheters: Used for urgent dialysis access; not tunneled and typically placed at the bedside
• Tunneled Catheters: Placed in a procedure room or operating suite; designed for longer use and lower infection risk

• Starting dialysis urgently
• Waiting for an AV fistula or graft to mature
• When other access sites are not currently available

• The procedure is performed in a sterile setting with local anesthesia and light sedation
• Ultrasound and imaging guidance are used to place the catheter safely
• Most patients can return home the same day

• Keep the area clean and dry
• Never remove the dressing yourself
• Avoid submerging the site in water
• Report redness, pain, or drainage immediately
• Always follow instructions for flushing and care

• Fever or chills
• Swelling, redness, or pain near the catheter
• Difficulty with dialysis flow or alarms during treatment

After a dialysis catheter is placed, regular follow-up is important to keep it working well and to prevent complications. Care usually includes:

• Site checks: The insertion site is monitored for redness, swelling, pain, or drainage, which could signal infection.
• Cleaning and dressing changes: The area around the catheter is cleaned and the dressing is changed on a routine schedule, often at each dialysis session.
• Flushing the catheter: The catheter is flushed regularly with sterile solution to keep it open and prevent clots.
• Monitoring function: Staff check blood flow through the catheter to ensure it is working properly for dialysis.
• Patient education: Patients are taught how to protect the catheter, keep it dry, and recognize warning signs that need medical attention.