Reduction of Risk PotentialQuestion 230 of 2368
The nurse prepares for a radial artery blood gas and performs the Allen test. Which result shows that blood flow to the hand is adequate?
- The hand stays pale after ulnar artery pressure is released
- Warmth and color return to the hand after ulnar artery pressure is released
- The hand turns dusky and cool after both arteries are released
- The radial pulse is absent after ulnar pressure is released
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Correct answer: Warmth and color return to the hand after ulnar artery pressure is released
Pressure is held on both arteries and then released from the ulnar artery. Returning warmth and color mean adequate arterial flow.
Source: Nursing Fundamentals, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2024), Fluids and Electrolytes: Arterial Blood Gases. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Practice the topic "Reduction of Risk Potential"Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026