Which actions are correct when the nurse is performing the Allen's test? Note: Credit will be given only if all correct choices and no incorrect choices are selected. Select all that apply

Question

1. Occlude the radial artery and, after 15 seconds, occlude the ulnar artery.
2. Ask the patient to hold the hand below waist level for 30 seconds before beginning the test.
3. Release pressure over the ulnar artery first.
4. Hold pressure on the radial artery for 30 seconds before assessing the hand.
5. Consider color return to the hand in 20 seconds as a negative test.

Answer 1

3,5
Rationale 1: The arteries are occluded at the same time.
Rationale 2: The patient should be asked to hold the hand above the head.
Rationale 3: After the patient releases the fist, the nurse releases pressure on the ulnar artery.
Rationale 4: Holding pressure on the radial artery for 30 seconds is not part of the Allen's test.
Rationale 5: In this case a negative result indicates the superficial palmar arch is not intact. Color return that takes over 15 seconds is considered a negative result.