Braden scale is used to measure?

Appeared in: SGPGI Nursing Officer-2023

Explanation

The Braden Scale is a standardized assessment tool specifically designed to predict a patient's risk for developing pressure ulcers, which are commonly called bed sores.
It evaluates six key risk factors: sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction/shear.
A low score signifies a high risk, prompting nurses to initiate preventative measures like frequent repositioning and using pressure-relieving surfaces.
The image provided clearly labels the tool as the 'Braden Scale for Predicting Pressure Sore Risk', confirming its purpose.

Option A: Pain is a subjective symptom assessed using specific pain measurement tools, not the Braden Scale.
Option C: Infection is a pathological process diagnosed through clinical observation and laboratory tests, not a predictive risk scale.
Option D: This option is incorrect because a correct answer exists. The Braden Scale has a specific, well-defined purpose.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Braden Scale for pressure ulcer risk assessment as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses use the Braden Scale score to create and justify a preventative care plan, which is a crucial aspect of patient safety and a key quality indicator in healthcare settings.
A score of 18 or less is a common threshold that triggers specific nursing protocols, such as a turning schedule every two hours, consultation with a dietitian, and the use of pressure-redistribution mattresses.
What if? If a patient is admitted with a Braden score of 20 (not at risk) but develops incontinence and refuses to eat two days later, the nurse must reassess the score. A new, lower score would require immediate implementation of a pressure ulcer prevention plan that was not previously needed.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question: 'Braden scale'. This is a factual recall question asking for the purpose of a specific clinical tool.
Access your knowledge about common nursing assessment scales. What is the Braden Scale used for?
Evaluate each option against the known purpose of the scale.
Option A, 'Pain', is incorrect; pain is measured with tools like the Wong-Baker FACES or Numeric Rating Scale.
Option B, 'Bed sore', is another term for a pressure ulcer. The Braden Scale is the primary tool for assessing the risk of pressure ulcers.
Option C, 'Infection', is incorrect; infection is diagnosed through clinical signs and lab work, not a risk scale.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Nursing Fundamentals Taylor p. 562-564

E6 Nursing Brunner Adult Health 3SA Vol 2 Part 2 p. 110-112

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