The respiratory therapist preparing to insert an arterial line in the right radial artery performs an Allen test. The result of the Allen test is 20 seconds. The respiratory therapist should do which of the following?
a. Insert the cannula into the right radial ar-tery.
b. Repeat the Allen test on the right hand.
c. Perform an Allen test on the left hand.
d. Recommend a surgical cut down at the right radial site.
ANS: C
The purpose of the Allen test is to assess the adequacy of the collateral circulation to the hand, specifically ulnar circulation. A positive Allen test is a refill time of 5-10 seconds. This patient has a negative Allen test (23 seconds). Therefore, ulnar collateral circulation is insufficient and the right radial artery of this patient must not be cannulated. Another site, the left radial, should be assessed for collateral circulation.
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