2024 PN NCLEX Questions Nursing Practice Question
A nurse assisting with data collection of the peripheral vascular system performs the Allen test. The nurse understands that this test is used to determine the patency of which blood vessel(s)?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The Allen test specifically evaluates the patency of the radial and ulnar arteries. By occluding these arteries and assessing blood flow upon release, the test determines whether adequate circulation is maintained in the hand, indicating the health of these vessels.
Option A, capillaries, are too small for this test's purpose and are not directly assessed. Option B, pedal pulses, relate to the lower extremities and are not involved in the Allen test. Option C, femoral arteries, are located in the thigh and are not assessed in this particular test focused on the hand's blood supply.