Which test evaluates distal circulatory system function by measuring blood return speed after blanching an area?

The capillary refill test is a simple and effective method used to assess distal circulatory function. This test involves blanching an area of the skin, typically by applying pressure to a fingernail or a small area of the skin, which temporarily restricts blood flow. Once the pressure is released, the rate at which blood returns to the blanched area indicates how well the circulatory system is functioning in that region.

A quick return of color (usually within two seconds) suggests good perfusion and adequate blood flow, while a slower return could indicate poor circulation, possibly due to conditions such as shock, dehydration, or hypothermia. This makes the capillary refill test a valuable tool for evaluating the effectiveness of blood circulation, particularly in emergency situations where immediate assessment is crucial.

In contrast, other options serve different functions: the blood pressure test measures overall pressure against blood vessel walls, pulse oximetry measures oxygen saturation in the blood, and circulation assessment is a broader term that includes various means of evaluating overall circulatory health, but does not specifically refer to the measurement of blood return speed after blanching.