An arteriovenous (AV) fistula for hemodialysis is a surgical connection made between an artery and a vein, typically in the arm. This creates a high-flow access point for hemodialysis treatment, allowing blood to be withdrawn, filtered through a dialysis machine to remove waste and excess fluid, and then returned to the body. AV fistulas are considered the preferred method of vascular access for hemodialysis due to their long-term durability and lower risk of complications such as infection or clotting. Proper care and monitoring of AV fistulas are essential to ensure optimal function and longevity, often involving regular assessment by healthcare providers and patient education on self-care techniques.