Braden Scale for Pressure Ulcer Risk
Six-factor pressure ulcer risk assessment. Scores range from 6 (highest risk) to 23 (lowest risk).
Score interpretation
Braden 19–23: No significant risk
→ Standard skin care; reassess if condition changes
Braden 15–18: At risk
→ 2-hourly repositioning; protect bony prominences; optimise nutrition; moisture management
Braden 13–14: Moderate risk
→ Repositioning every 2h; foam/dynamic mattress; nutritional assessment; skin inspection at every care episode
Braden 10–12: High risk
→ Pressure-relieving mattress; nutritional support; continence care; multidisciplinary pressure ulcer prevention plan
Braden ≤9: Very high risk
→ Advanced pressure-relieving surface; 1–2 hourly turning; wound care specialist review; nutritional support; head-of-bed ≤30 degrees
Interpretation bands for the Braden Scale. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
- Braden B, Bergstrom N. A conceptual schema for the study of the etiology of pressure sores. Rehabil Nurs. 1987;12(1):8-12.
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Chlorhexidine gluconate with isopropyl alcohol · Skin antiseptic
- Chlorhexidine with cetrimide · Skin antiseptic / wound cleanser
- Barrier creams and ointments · Topical skin protectant
- Thiamine (IV/IM — Pabrinex) · Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) — deficiency treatment / Wernicke's encephalopathy prevention
- Chlorhexidine · Antiseptic / disinfectant (bisbiguanide)
- Anthrax Vaccine · Vaccine (Bacterial — Anthrax Prevention)
- Sepsis Screening and Sepsis Six · UK Sepsis Trust; NICE NG51; Surviving Sepsis Campaign 2021
- Unintentional Weight Loss Workup · NICE NG12; BSG
- Chronic Fatigue Workup · NICE NG206; BMJ Best Practice
- Lymphadenopathy Workup · NICE NG12; BMJ Best Practice
- Pre-op Medical Clearance · NICE NG45; ESC 2022
- Secondary Hypertension Workup · NICE NG136; ESH 2023
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.