Question

When checking capillary refill the color should return to the nail bed in:

-1 second
-2 seconds
-4 seconds
-6 seconds

Answer 1

The color should return to the nail bed within 2 seconds when performing a capillary refill test, indicating normal blood flow and capillary refill time.

Step-by-step explanation:

When checking capillary refill, the color should return to the nail bed in 2 seconds. The nail bed is the skin under the nail plate, which appears pink due to the capillaries present in the dermis layer. A blanch test can be performed to check blood flow and capillary refill time. During this test, the fingernail is depressed to turn the nail bed white, and upon release, the color should return swiftly. A longer refill time may suggest issues such as low blood volume, dehydration, or shock. Nail health can be an indicator of overall health, as it reflects blood flow and oxygen saturation.