Education-Based Nursing Management of Vascular Access Complications in End-Stage Renal Disease: A Case Study

Background: End-stage renal disease (ESRD) requires lifelong haemodialysis (HD) therapy. Functional vascular access is a key determinant of the success and adequacy of HD therapy and patient safety. Despites advance in vascular access management, catheter-related complications, such as luminal obstruction, continue to present significant challenges in clinical practice. This study aims to describe the education-based nursing management in addressing vascular access complications, particularly catheter obstruction in ESRD patient undergoing HD. Case Presentation: Mrs. AN, a 58-year-old woman with ESRD experienced complete obstruction of both lumens of her right subclavian catheter during HD therapy. The procedure was interrupted for 2 hours and 25 minutes despite a 45-minute heparin flush without success. Previously, a similar incident occurred, which was a month earlier. Conclusion: Nursing management of ESRD patients with catheter obstruction requires an integrated approach combining nursing education for patients and nurses with appropriate clinical interventions. This education encompasses vascular access care, early detection of obstruction, hygiene practices, and adherence to haemodialysis schedules. This case study highlights that effective nursing education has the potential to improve patients’ knowledge, skills, and adherence, thereby contributing to the prevention of recurrent complications, enhanced patient safety, and long-term therapeutic success.