Braden Score Calculator
The Braden Score is a widely-used clinical tool to evaluate a patient’s risk of developing pressure ulcers (bedsores). It assesses six key factors: sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction & shear.
Our Braden Score Calculator allows healthcare professionals and caregivers to quickly determine a patient’s total score and identify the appropriate level of preventive care.
Why Use the Braden Score Calculator?
Pressure ulcers can cause pain, infection, and prolonged hospitalization. Early assessment and intervention are critical. This calculator helps:
- Evaluate Risk Quickly: Assigns numeric values to key patient factors.
- Guide Clinical Decisions: Provides risk level, ulcer risk percentage, and prevention strategy.
- Plan Care: Suggests repositioning frequency, support surfaces, and assessment intervals.
- Standardized Approach: Aligns with established Braden Scale guidelines.
How to Use the Braden Score Calculator
Step 1: Assess Each Factor
Rate the patient for each of the six categories:
- Sensory Perception: Ability to respond to discomfort. (1 = Completely Limited, 4 = No Impairment)
- Moisture: Skin exposure to moisture. (1 = Constantly Moist, 4 = Rarely Moist)
- Activity: Level of physical activity. (1 = Bedfast, 4 = Walks Frequently)
- Mobility: Ability to change and control body position. (1 = Completely Immobile, 4 = No Limitations)
- Nutrition: Intake and quality of nutrition. (1 = Very Poor, 4 = Excellent)
- Friction & Shear: Risk from sliding and movement. (1 = Problem, 3 = No Apparent Problem)
Step 2: Click Calculate
The calculator will sum the scores and display:
- Total Braden Score (Maximum 23 points)
- Risk Level (No Risk → Severe Risk)
- Pressure Ulcer Risk Percentage
- Assessment Frequency (how often to monitor)
- Prevention Strategy (interventions to minimize risk)
- Repositioning Frequency
- Support Surface Needed (type of mattress or overlay)
- Clinical Action (steps for immediate care or routine monitoring)
Understanding the Braden Score
| Total Score | Risk Level | Pressure Ulcer Risk | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| 19–23 | No Risk | Minimal (<5%) | Routine care |
| 15–18 | Mild Risk | Low (10–15%) | Basic prevention |
| 13–14 | Moderate Risk | Moderate (25–35%) | Monitor and prevent deterioration |
| 10–12 | High Risk | High (40–50%) | Intensive prevention measures |
| ≤9 | Severe Risk | Very High (65%) | Immediate intervention required |
Example:
A patient with the following scores:
- Sensory Perception: 3
- Moisture: 2
- Activity: 3
- Mobility: 2
- Nutrition: 3
- Friction & Shear: 2
Total Score = 15 → Mild Risk
- Prevention: Basic prevention measures
- Repositioning: Every 3–4 hours
- Support Surface: Standard foam mattress
Tips for Using the Braden Score Effectively
- Assess Regularly: Evaluate at admission and during care to track changes.
- Document Scores: Keep records for all patients at risk.
- Act Promptly: Implement prevention strategies based on risk level.
- Combine With Clinical Judgment: Consider other medical conditions alongside the score.
- Educate Caregivers: Train staff and family to recognize risk factors.
12 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the Braden Scale?
A tool to assess risk of pressure ulcers using six patient factors. - How is the total score calculated?
Add scores from Sensory Perception, Moisture, Activity, Mobility, Nutrition, and Friction & Shear. - What does a low score mean?
Lower scores indicate higher risk for developing pressure ulcers. - What is considered high risk?
Scores 10–12 indicate high risk, ≤9 is severe risk. - Can I use this calculator for home care?
Yes, caregivers can use it to monitor patients at home. - How often should I assess a patient?
Frequency depends on risk level: severe risk → every shift, mild risk → weekly. - What interventions are recommended?
Repositioning, pressure-relieving surfaces, skin care, and nutrition support. - Can the score change over time?
Yes, patient condition changes can affect the score. - Does this replace clinical judgment?
No, always combine with professional assessment. - Is the calculator free?
Yes, it is completely free and online. - Does it include infants or children?
The Braden Scale is typically for adults; pediatric versions exist. - Can I track multiple patients?
Yes, you can record scores for multiple patients manually or digitally.
Final Thoughts
The Braden Score Calculator is an essential tool for healthcare professionals, nurses, and caregivers. It provides a quick, accurate assessment of pressure ulcer risk and guides preventive measures.
Using this tool regularly helps reduce complications, optimize patient care, and ensure early intervention when necessary. Track scores, implement prevention strategies, and safeguard your patients’ skin health efficiently.