Assessing pallor in children involves a thorough physical examination:
- Skin Examination: Look at the child's skin, especially areas where blood vessels are close to the surface like the face, palms, and soles. - Mucous Membranes: Inspect the conjunctiva (inside of the lower eyelid), gums, and tongue for paleness. - Nail Beds: Check the color of the nail beds by pressing on them and observing how quickly color returns after releasing pressure. - Capillary Refill Time: Measure the time it takes for color to return to the nail beds after pressing. Prolonged capillary refill time can indicate poor circulation.
