Type of Dialysis Access (Current vs. Previous) – Qualitative Assessment
This test checks whether your current dialysis access type (e.g., fistula, graft, or catheter) differs from your most recent documented type, often used to confirm consistency in care.
This is a review to ensure your dialysis setup matches your medical records.
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72054-0
- Short code
- DATECHANGEOFDIALYSISACCESSTYPE
- Synonyms
- —
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- esrd
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test evaluates the type of vascular access used for dialysis (e.g., arteriovenous fistula, synthetic graft, or temporary catheter) by comparing it to your prior documented access type. It is not a direct measurement of blood or fluid parameters but rather a qualitative check for consistency in your setup.
Why It Matters in Dialysis Care
Accurate tracking of dialysis access type helps healthcare providers ensure proper placement, function, and maintenance of your access. Changes in access type may signal underlying vascular issues or procedural adjustments needed for optimal dialysis delivery.
Common Reasons for This Test
This test may be conducted during routine dialysis follow-ups, after a change in access type (e.g., due to complications or surgical intervention), or to verify compliance with your care plan. It is not a routine blood test but a targeted assessment.
What to Expect During the Procedure
No blood draw is required for this test. Instead, your healthcare team will review your medical records and compare the current dialysis access type (e.g., documented in your chart or via physical exam) to your prior documented type. This is a quick, non-invasive process.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
A discrepancy in documented access type may indicate errors in medical records, undiagnosed vascular issues, or procedural errors. If your access type changes frequently, it could signal underlying health concerns (e.g., stenosis, infection, or poor graft function) that need further evaluation. Always confirm with your provider if you notice changes in your access type or symptoms like swelling, pain, or reduced dialysis efficiency.
Frequently asked questions
Will this test involve a blood draw?
How often should I expect this test?
What should I do if my access type changes unexpectedly?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy