Capillary Refill Time Measurement Techniques

Capillary refill time (CRT) measures how quickly blood returns to the tiny blood vessels (capillaries) after pressing on a person's nail bed or skin. To measure it, a healthcare provider applies gentle pressure for a few seconds until the skin blanches (turns white), then releases and notes how long it takes for color to reappear. A normal CRT is usually less than 2 seconds. This test helps assess blood circulation and detect dehydration or shock. Proper technique involves consistent pressure and timing, often using a stopwatch or visual cues to ensure accurate assessment.