Allen Test
It is very important to perform Allen Test to confirm the patency of the ulnar artery, because in case there is no collateral flow through the ulnar artery, radial artery puncture is contraindicated since it can result in a gangrenous finger or loss of the hand from spasm or clotting of the radial artery. The Allen Test is performed with the patient sit with her hands supinated on her knees. Then stand at the patient's side with your fingers around her wrist; compress the tissue over both radial and ulnar arteries. Allow a few minutes for the blood to drain from the hand while the patient opens and closes her hands several times. Release the pressure on the ulnar artery while keeping the radial artery occluded. normal skin color should return to the ulnar side of the palm in 1-2 seconds, followed by quick restoration of normal color to the entire palm. A hand that remains white indicates either absence or occlusion of the ulnar artery, and radial artery puncture is contraindicated.
Read more about this topic: Radial Artery Puncture, Contraindications
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