Braden Pressure Ulcer Risk Scale

Summary

The Braden Scale is the most widely validated tool for assessing a patient's risk of developing pressure ulcers (also called pressure injuries or decubitus ulcers). It scores six subscales — sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction/shear — each rated 1–4 (friction/shear 1–3), producing a total between 6 and 23. Lower scores indicate higher risk. This calculator provides instant score computation and evidence-based clinical interpretation to guide prevention planning.

How it works

1. Select the appropriate rating for each of the six Braden subscales.
2. Each subscale describes the patient's current functional status.
3. Scores are summed automatically as you make selections.
4. The total score is classified into a risk category (Mild, Moderate, High, Very High).
5. Use the risk category to guide preventive interventions such as repositioning schedules, support surfaces, and nutrition support.

Use cases

• Initial skin risk assessment on hospital admission.
• Reassessing risk every 24–48 hours in acute care settings.
• Nursing home intake and periodic skin surveillance.
• Teaching nursing students how the Braden Scale works.
• Documenting skin risk scores for quality improvement audits.
• Planning individualized pressure injury prevention care plans.
• Post-surgical patient risk stratification in the ICU.
• Home health assessments for bedbound or mobility-impaired patients.

Frequently Asked Questions