New York State Basic Emergency Medical Technician (EMT-B) Practice Exam

In pediatric trauma patients, what is an abnormal capillary refill time?

1. Less than 1 second

2. 2 seconds

3. Greater than 2 seconds

4. 3 seconds

The correct answer is: Greater than 2 seconds

In pediatric trauma patients, capillary refill time is a critical assessment tool used to evaluate peripheral perfusion and circulatory status. A normal capillary refill time in children is typically considered to be less than 2 seconds. Therefore, if capillary refill time exceeds this threshold, it indicates potential issues with circulation. When the capillary refill time is greater than 2 seconds, it suggests that there may be some form of hypoperfusion—meaning the body is not getting enough blood flow to the extremities, which can be due to various issues such as shock, dehydration, or an underlying medical condition. Such findings are particularly concerning in pediatric patients, as children can deteriorate rapidly with inadequate circulation. While a capillary refill time of 2 seconds is still considered acceptable, any increase beyond this can signal a problem that warrants further assessment and potentially immediate intervention. This understanding is crucial for EMTs and other healthcare providers when managing pediatric trauma cases.