Braden Scale

Risk Assessment for Pressure Injury (PI) Development.

About the Braden Scale

Created in: 1987

Authors: Barbara Braden and Nancy Bergstrom

Purpose: To identify patients at risk of developing pressure ulcers/injuries.

Parameters: Sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, friction and shear.

Interpretation: The score ranges from 6 to 23. A lower score indicates a higher risk of developing a pressure injury. A score of ≤ 18 generally indicates at-risk status for most patients.

Calculate Braden Scale

Ability to respond meaningfully to pressure-related discomfort.

Degree to which skin is exposed to moisture (sweat, urine, etc).

Degree of physical activity.

Ability to change and control body position.

Usual food intake pattern.

Skin friction when moving or sliding in bed/chair.

References

  • Braden, B., & Bergstrom, N. (1987). A conceptual schema for the study of the etiology of pressure sores. Rehabilitation Nursing, 12(1), 8-12. Available at: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3643627/
  • National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel (NPIAP), European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (EPUAP), and Pan Pacific Pressure Injury Alliance (PPPIA). (2019). Prevention and Treatment of Pressure Ulcers/Injuries: Clinical Practice Guideline. Available at: https://npiap.com/page/ClinicalGuidelines