Certified Hemodialysis Technician Practice Exam

The distinction highlighted in the response revolves around the anatomies and construction of the arteriovenous shunt (AVS) and the arteriovenous fistula (AVF). An arteriovenous fistula is created by surgically connecting an artery directly to a vein, typically forming an access point entirely within the arm. This structure allows for a more durable and stable access for dialysis treatments, making it less prone to complications than an external device. In contrast, an arteriovenous shunt often incorporates external components and may not provide the same level of integrated circulatory function as an AVF. Therefore, the statement that the AVF is entirely within the arm accurately captures this key difference, emphasizing the internal nature and natural integration of the fistula compared to the typically temporary and external nature of a shunt.