Braden Scale Calculator

👩‍⚕️ Recommended for Nursing Students

Free Braden Scale Calculator: Risk Assessment & Care Plan Generator

Assessing a patient’s pressure ulcer risk is critical. A miscalculation doesn’t just lower a score; it endangers a patient.

Most online calculators just give you a number. This Free Braden Scale Calculator is different. It instantly interprets the score, generates a specific Nursing Care Plan, and writes your Charting Note for you. It is designed for Nursing Students and RNs who need accuracy and speed.

How to Use This Calculator

This tool follows the official Barbara Braden protocols used in hospitals worldwide. Follow these three steps:

1. Assess the 6 Subscales: Evaluate your patient on Sensory Perception, Moisture, Activity, Mobility, Nutrition, and Friction/Shear.
   • Pro Tip: “Friction & Shear” is the only category scored 1-3. All others are 1-4.
2. Select Levels: Choose the description that matches your patient’s current status. The tool includes “Study Mode” definitions under each option to help you recall specific criteria.
3. Get Your Care Plan: Click Calculate Risk Score. The tool will display:
   • Your Total Score (6-23).
   • A Visual Risk Thermometer (Red/Yellow/Green).
   • Recommended Nursing Interventions (e.g., “Turn q2h”).
   • A Ready-to-Copy Charting Note for your EMR.

Why This Tool Beats MDCalc & PDF Charts

We analyzed the top tools used by nurses. They are often outdated or too basic. Here is how GooExam compares:

Understanding Braden Scale Scoring Logic

The Braden Scale ranges from 6 to 23. Unlike most medical scoring systems, a lower score indicates higher risk.

The Scoring Breakdown

• 19 – 23 (No Risk): Patient is stable. Routine monitoring is sufficient.
• 15 – 18 (Mild Risk): Weekly assessment required. Focus on hydration and mobility.
• 13 – 14 (Moderate Risk): Daily assessment. Use foam wedges and manage moisture.
• 10 – 12 (High Risk): Assess every shift. Turn patient every 2 hours (q2h).
• 9 or Less (Severe Risk): Critical. Immediate wound care consult and pressure-redistribution surface required.

The “Friction & Shear” Exception

Students often lose points on the NCLEX here.

• Friction: The mechanical force of two surfaces rubbing against each other (e.g., skin vs. sheets).
• Shear: The mechanical force that is parallel to the skin surface (e.g., when a patient slides down in bed, the skin stays put but the bone moves).
• Scoring: This section has a maximum score of 3, while others have a maximum of 4.

Nursing Interventions (Care Plan)

Your calculated score triggers specific nursing actions. Our tool generates these automatically, but here is the logic:

• Mobility Deficits: If the patient cannot move, you must turn them every 2 hours. Use pillows to offload heels (“floating heels”).
• Moisture Issues: Use barrier creams. Change linens frequently. Moisture softens the skin, making it susceptible to breakdown.
• Nutrition: If the score is low, consult a dietician. High-protein supplements are often prescribed to promote tissue integrity.

Limitations & Disclaimer

• Clinical Judgment: This calculator is a decision-support tool. It does not replace your clinical assessment. If a patient looks “High Risk” but scores “Moderate,” always treat for the higher risk.
• Protocol Variations: While this tool uses standard Braden protocols, your specific hospital or unit may have slightly different reassessment timings. Always follow your facility’s policy.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)