How do I measure central capillary refill time (CRT)?
• Apply firm pressure with your fingertips to the selected area, e.g. chest for about 5 seconds. Timing starts on release of pressure and is counted in seconds. Timing stops when the blanched area of the skin returns to its normal colour. If skin is dark or there is injury to the chest, CRT can be measured by applying pressure to another area such as the base of the thumb, nail bed or gums.
