Which score on the Braden scale indicates a higher risk of pressure ulcers?

A score of 16 or less on the Braden scale indicates a higher risk of pressure ulcers. The Braden scale is a widely used tool to assess a patient's risk of developing pressure ulcers, which are injuries to the skin and underlying tissue due to prolonged pressure. The scale evaluates various factors, including sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction/shear, assigning scores that reflect the patient's risk level.

Scores range from 6 to 23, with lower scores reflecting a higher level of risk. Specifically, a score of 16 or lower suggests that the individual is at increased risk, prompting the need for more intensive preventive measures, such as repositioning, skin care, and possibly nutritional support. This evidence-based assessment helps healthcare providers identify patients who may need more aggressive interventions to prevent pressure ulcers, especially in geriatric populations or those with limited mobility.

Higher scores, such as 18 or more, indicate a lower risk level, implying that those individuals are less likely to develop pressure ulcers under typical circumstances. Therefore, understanding how to interpret the Braden scale effectively is crucial for the management and prevention of pressure injuries in vulnerable patient populations.