Exemplary embodiments described herein are directed to a vascular access catheter device with an inline needle, the device having a catheter portion that is linearly displaceable relative to a needle portion, and vice versa, and to methods of performing hemodialysis using said device. Extension of the catheter portion relative to the needle portion allows the catheter of the catheter portion to cover the needle tip, thereby minimizing or eliminating the possibility that the needle may damage a fistula/graft or peripheral vessel of a patient. Subsequent retraction of the needle portion withdraws the needle into the catheter to protect the fistula/graft or peripheral vessel from possible damage. Because the needle still remains largely within the catheter after retraction, there is no risk of catheter collapse, kinking, etc., which could compromise blood flow during a hemodialysis or other vascular access procedure.
