Pallor

Pale skin color from reduced blood flow or hemoglobin

Definition

Pallor is a loss of normal skin color, appearing pale or whitish. It may reflect reduced blood flow (shock, syncope) or reduced hemoglobin (anemia).

Causes

Anemia
Shock (hypovolemic, septic, cardiogenic)
Syncope or vasovagal response
Hypothermia
Peripheral vascular disease
Fear, pain

Assessment

Examine conjunctiva, nail beds, palms, and mucous membranes. Especially important for patients with darker skin tones where skin color changes may be subtle. Combine with capillary refill, peripheral pulses, temperature.

Nursing Interventions

Assess for source: shock (fluids, vasopressors), anemia (transfusion, iron, B12), PVD (warming, limb positioning). Monitor vital signs, SpO2, and mental status.

NCLEX Relevance

Pallor + tachycardia + hypotension = shock.