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		The Allen's Test Multiple Choice Question 1. The Allen's test is performed before drawing blood for a. CBC b. Arterial blood gas c. Coagulation studies d. Blood typing The right answer is B. Back to Acid-Base Quiz The Allen's test is performed to check for collateral circulation in the hand before drawing blood from the radial artery for arterial blood gas. The radial artery and the ulnar artery share two important collaterals, the superficial palmar arch (SPA) and the deep palmar arch (DPA). It is essential to perform the Allen's test before drawing blood from the radial artery because the presence of good collaterals between the radial artery and the ulnar artery will assure blood supply to the whole hand in case the radial artery is temporarily bruised during the procedure. Allen's Test: Steps to follow 1. Client makes a fist 2. Apply pressure on client's ulnar and radial arteries 3. Ask client to open his/her hand while pressure is still on 4. Release pressure from the ulnar artery and assess the color of the hand distal to the point of pressure on the radial artery. If white: No good collateral circulation If red: Good collateral circulation. The test MIMICS damage of the radial artery. FEEDBACK - QUESTIONS - JOIN OUR REVIEW - NEED CPR Prepared by Jean Garry Cantave Health Yourself Staff Back to Acid-Base Quiz HOME

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