What is the Braden Scale and what is it used for in tissue integrity?

What is the Braden Scale and what is it used for in tissue integrity?

• A. A treatment protocol for wound debridement.
• B. A scoring system for wound infection severity.
• C. A device to measure wound depth.
• D. A risk assessment tool evaluating sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, friction/shear to predict pressure ulcer risk.

Answer: (D)

The Braden Scale is a risk assessment tool used to predict pressure ulcer risk by evaluating six factors that influence skin integrity: sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction/shear. Each factor is scored, and the totals range from 6 to 23, with lower scores indicating greater risk. This scoring guides prevention planning—such as implementing pressure-relieving surfaces, more frequent repositioning, targeted skin care, and nutrition or moisture management—to reduce the likelihood of ulcers. It isn’t a treatment protocol, a device to measure wound depth, or a measure of wound infection severity.

The Braden Scale is a risk assessment tool used to predict pressure ulcer risk by evaluating six factors that influence skin integrity: sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction/shear. Each factor is scored, and the totals range from 6 to 23, with lower scores indicating greater risk. This scoring guides prevention planning—such as implementing pressure-relieving surfaces, more frequent repositioning, targeted skin care, and nutrition or moisture management—to reduce the likelihood of ulcers. It isn’t a treatment protocol, a device to measure wound depth, or a measure of wound infection severity.