Final answer:
Capillary refill time (CRT) is a clinical assessment used to evaluate peripheral perfusion. It may not be the most reliable indicator of end-organ perfusion in children less than 2 years old.
Step-by-step explanation:
Capillary refill time (CRT) is a clinical assessment used to evaluate peripheral perfusion in patients. It measures the time it takes for blood to refill the capillaries after they have been compressed. A normal CRT is less than 2 seconds for children and adults.
However, CRT may not be the most reliable indicator of end-organ perfusion in children less than 2 years old. In this age group, the capillary refill time can be influenced by factors such as temperature, hydration status, and underlying medical conditions. Therefore, other assessment methods, such as heart rate, blood pressure, and skin color, should also be considered in determining end-organ perfusion in young children.