the allen test is used to check the health of the ulnar artery and other vessels in the hand that maintain normal circulation. it's executed by first allowing blood to drain from the hand. at the end blood flow to the hand is evaluated. first ask the patient to hold a clenched fist high in the air. at the same time the main arteries are compressed. by compressing the ulnar and radial artery you allow blood to drain from the hand. next lower the hand and open the fist. once pressure is release color should flow bak into the hand. this indicates that the ulnar vessel is healthy.
what is an allen's test?