As a medical professional, assessing capillary refill is a routine part of physical examinations, especially in cases where there may be concerns about circulation or perfusion. Here's how you can check capillary refill:


1. Position the patient: Ensure the patient is comfortable and the area you're checking is easily accessible. For instance, if you're checking the hands, they should be at the level of the heart.


2. Apply pressure: Press your finger or thumb firmly on the patient's nail bed or the skin of the extremity for about 5 seconds. The pressure should be enough to turn the area pale.


3. Release and observe: Remove the pressure and observe how quickly the color returns to the area. The color should return in a specific time frame, which is often quoted as no more than 2 seconds in adults and children.


4. Note the color: The returning color should be a healthy pink. If it's delayed or the color is not a healthy pink, it may indicate a problem with circulation.


5. Document findings: Record the time it takes for the color to return and any other observations about the color or condition of the skin.

Remember, capillary refill is just one indicator of circulation and should be considered alongside other vital signs and the patient's overall clinical picture.

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It can be measured by holding a hand higher than heart-level and pressing the soft pad of a finger or fingernail until it turns white, then taking note of the time needed for the color to return once pressure is released. Normal capillary refill time is usually less than 2 seconds.read more >>