Questions: What is capillary refill and what does it indicate? What limitations does it have?

Answers: The capillary refill time (CRT) is the time taken for return of skin colour after gentle pressure for 5 seconds and release. Normal value < 2 seconds.

CRT is part of an overall assessment of the child. It is important to use CRT as part of overall cardiovascular assessment , not in isolation.

Delayed CRT is a useful clinical sign and indicates vasoconstriction.

Limitations include:

• The CRT may be delayed if the child is cold
• CRT may be normal in vasodilated septic shock
• Capillary refill is part of an overall assessment of the child