The PTA applies ice to a patient's hand.The patient has sudden blanching,cyanosis,and arrhythmia of the fingers.The ice pack is removed and 10 to 15 minutes later,blood flow returns to the fingers.At this point the fingers become red and painful.What phenomenon does this patient present with,and what other condition will this patient most likely present with?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is experiencing Raynaud's phenomenon. Closure of the muscular digital arteries, precapillary arterioles, and arteriovenous shunts of the skin causes the hand to become numb and white and then bluish in color as blood flow remains blocked. Approximately 10 to 15 minutes later blood flow will return, and the fingers/toes will become red and warm. This is often the first sign of scleroderma.

The PTA Applies Ice to a Patient's Hand