What is the recommended frequency for using the Braden Scale on a routine basis?
Evidence shows that admission assessment is not enough and that on-going assessment improves the accuracy and the predictive ability of the Braden Scale. Performing an assessment every 48 hours may be sufficient, however, many facilities find it difficult to achieve consistency in this area. Nursing homes with skilled designations should perform risk assessment during patient admission and weekly thereafter. In a nursing home with long-term patients, the assessment should be done on admission, weekly for the first month, and monthly thereafter (if there has been no change). [1]
Can we download an official copy of the Braden Scale?
Yes, you may access an official copy by clicking here.
Is the Braden Scale a skin assessment tool?
No, the Braden Scale is intended to assess risk for developing pressure ulcers.
When I look at different sites discussing the Braden Scale, some say low risk is 15-16 and others say 18. Has this number changed over the years?
Yes, the correct cut-off score is now considered to be 18.
The protocols for the Braden Scale state that if the patient has advanced age then you advance to the next level of risk. Is there a definition of advanced age?
Patients over the age of 75 were more prone to developing pressure ulcers. People and skin age at different rates, however, and younger patients can also have frail skin that places them at higher risk. Nursing judgment is essential to determining if an adjustment in level of risk is necessary.
For information on documenting and preventing pressure ulcers in an efficient and organized way, visit woundrounds.com.
“Frequently Asked Questions.” Prevention Plus. Web. 20 September 2012.
