Certified Wound Care Nurse (CWCN) Practice Exam

How is delayed capillary refill related to vascular health?

1. It indicates adequate blood circulation

2. It suggests poor peripheral perfusion

3. It is a sign of good venous return

4. It reveals normal hematological levels

The correct answer is: It suggests poor peripheral perfusion

Delayed capillary refill is an important clinical indicator of vascular health. Specifically, it suggests poor peripheral perfusion. When capillary refill time is prolonged—typically taking more than two seconds—it indicates that blood is not effectively circulating to the extremities. This can be due to several factors including vasoconstriction, reduced cardiac output, or underlying conditions that affect blood flow, such as peripheral artery disease or shock. In healthy individuals, capillary refill should be quick, reflecting adequate blood flow and oxygen delivery to tissues. Therefore, when assessing vascular health, delayed capillary refill serves as a reliable sign of compromised blood flow and may warrant further investigation or intervention to improve vascular status and overall patient outcomes. This relationship underscores the importance of monitoring capillary refill as a part of a thorough vascular assessment.