The Braden Scale is a widely used tool designed to assess a patient’s risk of developing pressure injuries or ulcers. It evaluates key factors that contribute to skin breakdown and provides a score that categorizes the level of risk. Our Braden Scale Calculator simplifies the process by allowing you to calculate and interpret your Braden Scale score quickly and accurately.
What is the Braden Scale?
Your Braden Scale Score: 0
Understanding the Braden Scale
The Braden Scale evaluates six critical factors that influence the development of pressure injuries:
- Sensory Perception: The ability to feel and respond to discomfort or pressure.
- Moisture: The degree to which the skin is exposed to moisture.
- Activity: The level of physical activity.
- Mobility: The ability to change and control body position.
- Nutrition: The adequacy of food intake to support overall health.
- Friction and Shear: The skin’s exposure to forces that can cause injury.
Each factor is scored on a scale of 1 to 4, except for Friction and Shear, which is scored from 1 to 3. The total Braden Scale score ranges from 6 to 23, with lower scores indicating a higher risk of pressure injuries.
Why is the Braden Scale Important?
Significance of the Braden Scale Score
The Braden Scale is essential in healthcare settings for early detection and prevention of pressure injuries. By identifying patients at risk, caregivers can implement targeted interventions, such as repositioning schedules, special mattresses, or improved nutrition, to prevent injuries and promote better outcomes.
Regular assessment using the Braden Scale can also help track changes in risk levels, ensuring timely adjustments to care plans.
How to Calculate Braden Scale Score
Steps to Calculate Your Braden Scale Score
Using the Braden Scale involves evaluating each of the six factors and assigning a score based on observations:
- Select the most appropriate score for each factor based on your current condition or the patient’s condition.
- Input the scores into our calculator to compute the total Braden Scale score.
- Interpret the total score to determine the level of risk.
Braden Scale Range and Risk Levels
What Do the Scores Mean?
- 19–23: No risk.
- 15–18: Mild risk.
- 13–14: Moderate risk.
- 10–12: High risk.
- 6–9: Very high risk.
A lower score indicates a greater risk of developing pressure injuries. Healthcare providers use this information to prioritize care and allocate resources effectively.
Tips for Preventing Pressure Injuries
How to Reduce Risk
- Reposition Frequently: Shift positions every 2 hours to relieve pressure.
- Use Support Surfaces: Special mattresses or cushions can reduce pressure.
- Maintain Skin Hygiene: Keep skin clean and dry to prevent breakdown.
- Optimize Nutrition: Ensure adequate protein, vitamins, and hydration.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQs About the Braden Scale
1. What is the purpose of the Braden Scale?
The Braden Scale helps healthcare providers assess and manage the risk of pressure injuries.
2. Can the Braden Scale be used at home?
Yes, caregivers can use the Braden Scale to monitor risk levels, but professional guidance is recommended for high-risk scores.
3. How often should the Braden Scale be used?
In hospital settings, it’s typically assessed every 24–48 hours or whenever there’s a change in the patient’s condition.