A Closer Look at the Braden Scale
The Braden Scale is a widely used, evidence-based tool in healthcare, designed by nurses Barbara Braden and Nancy Bergstrom in the 1980s. Its purpose is to quantify a patient's risk for developing pressure injuries, also known as pressure ulcers or bedsores. This proactive assessment allows clinicians to identify at-risk individuals early and implement preventive care plans, which is crucial for improving patient outcomes and quality of life, especially for older adults.
The scale is not a one-time evaluation but is used upon admission and at routine intervals to monitor a patient's changing condition. It helps to standardize risk assessment across different healthcare settings, from hospitals to long-term care facilities, and is an essential component of person-centered care.
The Six Subscales of the Braden Scale
To answer the question, "Which of the following does the Braden Scale measure?", we must look at the six specific areas it assesses:
1. Sensory Perception
This subscale evaluates a patient's ability to respond meaningfully to pressure-related discomfort. A patient with limited sensory perception may not be able to feel pain or discomfort, or communicate their need to be repositioned, significantly increasing their risk of developing a pressure ulcer.
2. Moisture
This measures the degree to which a patient's skin is exposed to moisture. Constantly moist skin can increase the risk of breakdown.
3. Activity
This subscale assesses the patient's level of physical activity. Being bedfast or chairfast increases risk.
4. Mobility
Mobility evaluates a patient's ability to change and control their body position. Limited mobility increases the need for assistance with repositioning.
5. Nutrition
This assesses the patient's usual food intake. Poor nutrition can compromise skin health.
6. Friction and Shear
This final subscale measures the risk of skin damage from rubbing (friction) and sliding forces (shear).
Understanding the Braden Scale Scoring
Each subscale is scored, and these are summed for a total score from 6 to 23. A higher score indicates lower risk, while a lower score means higher risk.
- 19–23: No risk
- 15–18: Mild risk
- 13–14: Moderate risk
- 10–12: High risk
- 9 or lower: Severe risk
Applying the Braden Scale in Senior Care
The Braden Scale is vital for older adults, who often face increased risk factors like limited mobility or incontinence. Regular use helps care teams intervene proactively with strategies like frequent repositioning or nutritional support, tailoring care to individual needs. For more information, the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) offers a guide on pressure ulcer prevention: Preventing Pressure Ulcers in Hospitals - AHRQ.
Braden Scale vs. Other Assessment Tools: A Comparison
Compare the Braden Scale to other tools:
| Feature | Braden Scale | Morse Fall Scale | Geriatric Depression Scale |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | Assess risk for pressure ulcers | Assess risk for falls | Screen for depression in older adults |
| Key Focus Areas | Sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, friction/shear | History of falling, secondary diagnosis, ambulatory aid, IV/heparin lock, gait, mental status | Mood, energy, social engagement, satisfaction |
| Targeted Interventions | Repositioning, skin care, nutritional support | Environmental adjustments, mobility assistance | Counseling, support groups, medication |
| Use Case | Standardized risk assessment for bedsores | Identifying patients at risk of falling | Screening for mental health in older adults |
The Role of the Braden Scale in Quality Care
Understanding the Braden Scale empowers patients and caregivers to engage in preventing pressure injuries. It's a key part of comprehensive care, helping healthcare teams reduce the incidence of these complications and improve patient outcomes.
