What does the Braden Scale predict?

What does the Braden Scale predict?

• A. Predicting falls
• B. Predicting dehydration risk
• C. Predicting pressure sores
• D. Predicting infection risk

Answer: (C)

The Braden Scale is used to identify who is at risk for developing pressure ulcers. It evaluates factors that influence skin integrity—sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction/shear. Each domain contributes to an overall score, and a lower total indicates a higher risk for pressure sores, guiding preventive actions like regular repositioning, pressure-relieving surfaces, skin care, and nutrition optimization. It is not designed to predict falls, dehydration risk, or infection risk, which require different assessment tools.

The Braden Scale is used to identify who is at risk for developing pressure ulcers. It evaluates factors that influence skin integrity—sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction/shear. Each domain contributes to an overall score, and a lower total indicates a higher risk for pressure sores, guiding preventive actions like regular repositioning, pressure-relieving surfaces, skin care, and nutrition optimization. It is not designed to predict falls, dehydration risk, or infection risk, which require different assessment tools.