Which statement best describes the Braden Scale?

Which statement best describes the Braden Scale?

• A. Classifies wound depth
• B. Assesses risk of developing pressure injuries
• C. Evaluates nutritional status
• D. Scores weight loss

Answer: (B)

The Braden Scale is a risk assessment tool used to predict the likelihood of a patient developing pressure injuries. It evaluates six factors that influence skin integrity: sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction/shear. Each factor is scored, and the total score reflects overall risk—the lower the score, the higher the risk. This scale guides preventive care such as turning schedules, use of pressure-relieving surfaces, skin care, and nutrition planning. It’s not describing wound depth—that’s determined during wound assessment and staging after an injury occurs. It’s also not a tool to evaluate nutritional status on its own; nutrition is just one domain contributing to overall risk. Likewise, weight loss isn’t the measure itself, though it can influence the nutrition domain and overall risk score.

The Braden Scale is a risk assessment tool used to predict the likelihood of a patient developing pressure injuries. It evaluates six factors that influence skin integrity: sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction/shear. Each factor is scored, and the total score reflects overall risk—the lower the score, the higher the risk. This scale guides preventive care such as turning schedules, use of pressure-relieving surfaces, skin care, and nutrition planning.

It’s not describing wound depth—that’s determined during wound assessment and staging after an injury occurs. It’s also not a tool to evaluate nutritional status on its own; nutrition is just one domain contributing to overall risk. Likewise, weight loss isn’t the measure itself, though it can influence the nutrition domain and overall risk score.