What does an AV shunt connection involve when it exits the skin?

Prepare for the Mark Klimek Blue Book Part 1 Exam. Study with multiple choice questions, flashcards, and comprehensive explanations. Get ready for your nursing exam!

An AV shunt, or arteriovenous shunt, is a surgical connection between an artery and a vein that creates a pathway for blood to flow directly from the arterial system into the venous system. This type of connection is often created for patients who require hemodialysis, allowing for easy access to the vascular system.

When an AV shunt exits the skin, it typically involves the use of a plastic tube, known as a graft, which facilitates the flow of blood from the artery to the vein outside the body. This plastic tube is essential because it helps maintain the connection in a way that can withstand the high pressure of arterial blood and the lower pressure of venous blood, ensuring a continuous and efficient flow for dialysis procedures.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the function of an AV shunt as it exits the skin. A metal clip would not provide the necessary flexibility needed for blood flow between these two vessels, a valve is not a typical component of an AV shunt, and sutures are used for securing tissues during surgery but do not serve as a functional part of the shunt itself once the connection has been made.

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