Certified Risk Adjustment Coder (CRC)

An arteriovenous (AV) fistula is a connection that facilitates direct blood flow between an artery and a vein. This procedure is commonly utilized in patients requiring hemodialysis, as it enhances blood flow for the treatment. The creation of an AV fistula allows the high-pressure arterial blood to flow into a lower-pressure venous system, which helps in maintaining adequate blood circulation during dialysis.

The direct connection between an artery and a vein means that the blood can bypass the capillary beds, thus ensuring that there is sufficient volume and pressure for the dialysis machine to function properly. The other options do not accurately describe this specific medical connection; thus, choosing the connection between an artery and a vein aligns correctly with the purpose and function of an AV fistula.