When should the nurse conduct an Allen's test?
Just before arterial blood gasses are drawn peripherally.
Prior to attempting a cardiac output calculation.
To assess for presence of a deep vein thrombus in the leg.
When pulmonary artery pressures are obtained.
The Correct Answer is A
Allen's test is a procedure used to assess the patency of the ulnar artery and the collateral circulation of the hand. It is performed to determine the adequacy of collateral circulation before obtaining arterial blood gases from the radial artery. The test helps ensure that the ulnar artery is functioning properly and can supply blood to the hand if the radial artery is used for blood sampling or other invasive procedures.
The test involves occluding both the ulnar and radial arteries while the patient clenches their fist. The nurse then releases pressure on the ulnar artery while maintaining occlusion of the radial artery. The hand should quickly regain normal coloration, indicating adequate collateral circulation.
It's important to note that the Allen's test is specific to the assessment of collateral circulation in the hand and is not used for other purposes such as assessing deep vein thrombosis, cardiac output calculation, or obtaining pulmonary artery pressures.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Correct- Zidovudine is an antiretroviral medication used in the treatment of HIV infection.
One of the potential side effects of zidovudine is hematological toxicity, including anemia (low red blood cell count) and neutropenia (low white blood cell count). The appearance of pinpoint, red, round spots on the skin could be indicative of petechiae, which are small hemorrhages caused by the leakage of blood into the skin. Petechiae can occur due to low platelet counts, a
component of the complete blood count (CBC). Monitoring the complete blood count is important for clients receiving zidovudine to identify any potential adverse effects on blood cell counts. Anemia and neutropenia can increase the risk of infection, bleeding, and other complications. Therefore, any changes in blood cell counts, including the presence of petechiae, should be reported to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
B) Incorrect- This is used to assess allergic reactions and is not specifically related to the appearance of petechiae.
C) Incorrect- A skin biopsy is typically performed to diagnose skin conditions or diseases and is not the primary assessment to evaluate the cause of petechiae.
D) Incorrect- Electromyography is a diagnostic test used to assess muscle and nerve function and is not relevant to the appearance of petechiae associated with zidovudine use.

Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E","H"]
Explanation
- Capillary refill: This is a quick and simple way to assess the adequacy of peripheral perfusion and can help identify signs of dehydration.
- Skin turgor: Assessing the skin turgor, or the elasticity of the skin, is another useful indicator of dehydration.
- Heart rate: Tachycardia can be a sign of dehydration, so monitoring the heart rate is an important component of the assessment.
- Blood pressure: Blood pressure can be affected by dehydration, so monitoring it is important in determining the severity of dehydration and in guiding appropriate interventions.
- Temperature: Fever is a potential cause of dehydration, so monitoring the temperature is an important part of the assessment.
- Skin color of hands and feet: Checking the color of the skin on the hands and feet can help identify signs of poor perfusion and dehydration.
Assessing the level of consciousness, pupil size and reactiveness, and respiratory rate are important aspects of the neurological and respiratory assessments but are not specific to the assessment of dehydration.
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