The Braden Scale Calculator is a valuable tool used in healthcare to assess the risk of developing pressure ulcers or bedsores in patients. It utilizes a scoring system based on various criteria related to a patient’s sensory perception, moisture, activity level, mobility, nutrition, and the risk of friction and shear. By summing up these scores, healthcare professionals can gauge the patient’s vulnerability to skin breakdown and take preventive measures accordingly.
Formula of Braden Scale Calculator
The Braden Scale Score is determined by summing up scores from different categories:
- Sensory Perception Score: Evaluates the patient’s ability to perceive discomfort or pain due to pressure.
- Moisture Score: Assesses the level of skin dampness or dryness.
- Activity Score: Considers the patient’s level of physical activity or immobility.
- Mobility Score: Determines the extent of a patient’s movement or limitations.
- Nutrition Score: Reflects the patient’s nutritional status.
- Friction and Shear Score: Considers the risk of skin damage due to friction or shear forces.
Each category has its own scoring criteria, ranging from 1 to 4 or 1 to 3, where higher scores indicate better conditions.
Table of Scores for Reference
Here’s a quick reference table for the scoring criteria:
| Category | Scores |
|---|---|
| Sensory Perception Score | 1 = Completely Limited |
| 2 = Very Limited | |
| 3 = Slightly Limited | |
| 4 = No Impairment | |
| Moisture Score | 1 = Constantly Moist |
| 2 = Moist | |
| 3 = Occasionally Moist | |
| 4 = Rarely Moist | |
| Activity Score | 1 = Bedfast |
| 2 = Chairfast | |
| 3 = Walks Occasionally | |
| 4 = Walks Frequently | |
| Mobility Score | 1 = Completely Immobile |
| 2 = Very Limited | |
| 3 = Slightly Limited | |
| 4 = No Limitations | |
| Nutrition Score | 1 = Very Poor |
| 2 = Probably Inadequate | |
| 3 = Adequate | |
| 4 = Excellent | |
| Friction and Shear Score | 1 = Problem |
| 2 = Potential Problem | |
| 3 = No Apparent Problem |
Example of Braden Scale Calculator
For instance, if a patient has scores of 3 for sensory perception, 2 for moisture, 4 for activity, 4 for mobility, 3 for nutrition, and 2 for friction and shear, their total Braden Scale Score would be 18.
FAQs
The Braden Scale is utilized to assess the risk of developing pressure ulcers or bedsores in patients who may have limited mobility or other health conditions affecting skin integrity.
Healthcare providers typically use the Braden Scale on admission, regularly during hospital stays, and whenever a patient’s condition changes to monitor any alterations in risk levels.
While the Braden Scale is a useful tool, it provides an estimate and helps identify individuals at higher risk. However, it may not precisely predict the occurrence of pressure ulcers in every case.