If a patient’s capillary refill is greater than 2 seconds, what action should be taken?

When assessing a patient's capillary refill time, a value greater than 2 seconds typically indicates potential circulatory issues, suggesting that the patient may be in a shock state or experiencing compromised circulation. In emergency medical triage, this urgent sign necessitates immediate attention to prioritize the patient's care.

Tagging a patient as red signifies that they are in critical condition and require immediate medical intervention. This categorization reflects the urgency demanded by prolonged capillary refill times, which can indicate inadequate perfusion and possible life-threating conditions. Therefore, tagging as red appropriately aligns with the need to address potentially severe underlying issues promptly.

This emphasis on timely care is fundamental in triage settings, ensuring that those in greatest need receive assistance without delay, ultimately improving outcomes for critically injured or ill patients.