The test that measures capillary refill time is called what?

• A. Capnography
• B. Pulse Oximetry
• C. Capillary Refill
• D. Blood Pressure

Answer: (C)

Capillary refill time is a quick bedside way to gauge peripheral perfusion. It involves pressing on a fingernail or fingertip until the skin blanches, then releasing and timing how long color takes to return. Normal refill is typically under about 2 seconds, though temperature and age can influence the result. This test reflects how well blood is circulating through the small vessels in the extremities, which is helpful when assessing shock or dehydration. The other tests measure different things: capnography checks exhaled CO2 to monitor ventilation and airway placement, pulse oximetry estimates arterial oxygen saturation, and blood pressure assesses the force of blood against artery walls. The test described is capillary refill.