Abstract: Objective To investigate the knowledge about arteriovenous fistula (AVF) and its influencing factors in hemodialysis patients. Methods A total of 430 hemodialysis patients with AVF in the 8 hospitals in Shanghai were selected by the convenience sampling method. They were investigated by self- designed
questionnaire. Descriptive analysis was completed by using SPSS 22.0 software. Results The knowledge about AVF was at a low level in most hemodialysis patients. Educational level (β=1.758, P＜0.001), revascularization of AVF (β=1.289, P＜0.001), age (β=-0.494, P=0.005) and marital status (β=-1.146, P=0.007) were the predictors for knowledge score. Conclusions In order to improve the knowledge about AVF in hemodialysis patients, medical personnel should reinforce education on AVF knowledge and training on AVF protection in hemodialysis patients, and develop individualized programs to enhance their knowledge level.

Key words: hemodialysis, arteriovenous fistula, knowledge, multicenter study