Predicts risk of pressure ulcer development based on six Braden subscales.
For health professionals only.
Use this tool as part of a comprehensive assessment, following local policies and
clinical judgment.
Braden subscales
Select the single best description for each subscale. Lower scores represent
more impairment and higher risk.
1. Sensory perception – response to pressure-related discomfort
Consider ability to feel pain and communicate discomfort.
2. Moisture – degree of skin exposure to moisture
Includes perspiration, incontinence, wound exudate, etc.
3. Activity – level of physical activity
Usual ability to walk and mobilise.
4. Mobility – ability to change and control body position
Ability to reposition without assistance.
5. Nutrition – usual food intake pattern
Consider proportion of meals eaten, protein intake, supplements, and appetite.
6. Friction & shear
Consider sliding in bed/chair and need for assistance with repositioning.
Results
Total Braden score (6–23): 0
Risk category:
No apparent risk
Score in the no-risk range (19–23). Continue routine skin assessment and
preventive care according to local policy.
Typical cut-offs: ≤9 very high risk, 10–12 high risk, 13–14 moderate risk,
15–18 mild/at risk, 19–23 no apparent risk. Always integrate other risk factors
and skin findings into your care plan.
The Braden Scale for Predicting Pressure Ulcer Risk is a clinical tool used to estimate a patient’s likelihood of developing a pressure ulcer (pressure injury). It was developed in the 1980s by Barbara Braden and Nancy Bergstrom and is now one of the most widely used risk assessment tools in hospitals, long-term care, and community nursing. Wikipedia+1
The scale examines six subscales that influence pressure and tissue tolerance:
Sensory perception – ability to feel and respond to discomfort
Moisture – degree to which skin is exposed to moisture
Activity – level of physical activity
Mobility – ability to change and control body position
Each subscale is rated from 1 to 4 (except friction/shear, which is 1–3), with 1 indicating the poorest status and highest risk in that domain. The scores are summed to give a total between 6 and 23; lower scores mean higher risk. Wikipedia+2SCIRE Professional+2
Patients identified at higher risk should have individualized pressure-injury prevention plans, including repositioning schedules, support surfaces, moisture management, skin inspection, and nutritional support. The Braden Scale is a screening aid, not a standalone diagnostic tool; clinical judgment and local guidelines must guide final decisions. PMC+1
