What does capillary refill time indicate?

Capillary refill time is a clinical measure used to assess peripheral perfusion and circulatory status. It involves pressing on a fingertip or another part of the body to blanch the skin and then timing how long it takes for normal color to return once pressure is released. A normal capillary refill time (usually considered to be less than 2 seconds) indicates good blood flow and adequate perfusion to the extremities.

When capillary refill is prolonged, it can suggest that there may be issues such as shock, dehydration, hypothermia, or other conditions that lead to poor circulation. It serves as an important indicator of the body’s ability to maintain adequate blood flow to the tissues, thereby revealing the overall circulatory health. This measurement does not directly provide information about heart rate stability, respiratory function, or temperature regulation but is a valuable aspect of evaluating a patient’s cardiovascular status.