Capillary refill time

Capillary refill time (often abbreviated as CRT) is a simple, quick, and non-invasive test performed by medical professionals to assess peripheral circulation and dehydration. It is often used in emergency medicine and is part of the primary survey in trauma patients.

Procedure

The capillary refill time is measured by applying pressure to a patient's skin, usually on the fingernail or toenail, until it turns white. This is due to the expulsion of blood from the capillaries. The pressure is then released, and the time it takes for the color to return to normal is measured. A normal capillary refill time is usually less than 2 seconds.

Clinical significance

A prolonged capillary refill time can be an indication of several medical conditions. It can suggest poor perfusion, which may be due to shock, hypothermia, or certain cardiovascular diseases. It can also be a sign of dehydration, as the body may restrict blood flow to the skin in order to conserve water.

Limitations

While capillary refill time is a useful tool in assessing a patient's circulatory status, it has its limitations. Factors such as ambient temperature, patient age, and skin color can affect the results. Therefore, it should be used in conjunction with other clinical assessments.

See also

• Shock (circulatory)
• Dehydration
• Perfusion
• Primary survey

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