Braden Scale

Definition

The Braden Scale is a clinical tool used to assess a patient's risk of developing pressure ulcers. It evaluates six criteria: sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction and shear.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Scores on the Braden Scale range from 6 to 23; lower scores indicate higher risk for pressure ulcers.
2. Nutrition is one of the key factors assessed by the Braden Scale, emphasizing its importance in skin health.
3. A score of 18 or below generally indicates that a patient is at risk for developing pressure ulcers.
4. The Braden Scale helps healthcare providers create targeted care plans to prevent skin breakdown.
5. Regular reassessment using the Braden Scale is crucial for monitoring changes in a patient's condition.

Review Questions

• What are the six criteria evaluated by the Braden Scale?
• How does nutrition factor into the Braden Scale assessment?
• At what score on the Braden Scale is a patient considered at risk for pressure ulcers?

Related terms

Pressure Ulcers: Localized injuries to the skin and/or underlying tissue usually over bony prominences caused by prolonged pressure.

Sensory Perception: One of the criteria in the Braden Scale assessing a patient's ability to respond meaningfully to pressure-related discomfort.

Friction and Shear: Factors assessed by the Braden Scale that contribute to skin damage when surfaces rub against each other or when layers of skin slide on each other.