Capillary refill
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Capillary refill is the rate at which blood refills empty capillaries. It can be measured by holding a hand higher than heart-level (prevents venous reflux), pressing a fingernail until it turns white, and taking note of the time needed for colour to return once the nail is released. Normal refill time is less than 2 seconds. In neonates, capillary refill can be measured by pressing on the sternum for five seconds with a finger or thumb, and noting the time needed for the colour to return once the pressure is released. The upper normal limit for capillary refill in neonates is 3 seconds.[1] The capillary refill time (CRT) is a common measure of dehydration and peripheral perfusion. [2] It is generally accepted that the test can be highly variable between different patients, and unreliable. It is useful as supporting evidence for a positive sign of poor perfusion to the extremities. The CRT test is also known as the Nail blanch test.[3]
A CRT can also be assessed in animals by pressing on their gums as opposed to the sternum which is generally covered with fur.
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