Your patient is a three-year-old who presents with a fever. His parents state that he has had diarrhea and vomiting for two days. The patient has not eaten in 24 hours. To best evaluate the patient's peripheral perfusion status, you should evaluate his:
A) respiratory rate.
B) fingertip sensation.
C) capillary refill.
D) blood pressure.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Capillary refill time (CRT) is a quick and noninvasive way to assess peripheral perfusion status. A normal CRT is less than or equal to 2 seconds. In a patient who has been vomiting and had diarrhea, dehydration can occur, resulting in decrease peripheral perfusion. Evaluating the patient's CRT will help determine if dehydration and decreased peripheral perfusion are present, allowing for appropriate intervention.

Your Patient Is a Three-Year-Old Who Presents with a Fever