Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Practice Exam

What are the main categories of the Braden scale?

1. Ability, Mobility, Hygiene, Safety

2. Sensory perception, Mobility, Nutrition, Friction and Shear

3. Skin color, Temperature, Pressure, Pain

4. Dehydration, Edema, Sensation, Range of Motion

The correct answer is: Sensory perception, Mobility, Nutrition, Friction and Shear

The Braden scale is an established tool used to assess a patient's risk of developing pressure ulcers. It evaluates several key factors that contribute to skin integrity and overall risk assessment. The main categories of the Braden scale, which include sensory perception, mobility, nutrition, and friction and shear, are essential components in understanding a patient's level of risk. Sensory perception assesses the patient's ability to respond meaningfully to pressure-related discomfort. Mobility evaluates the degree of physical movement available, which influences the ability to change positions, thereby affecting pressure points on the skin. Nutrition is crucial because adequate nutritional status supports skin health and healing; inadequate nutrition increases the risk of skin breakdown. Friction and shear are significant mechanical forces that can damage the skin, especially in patients with limited mobility. These factors are interrelated and critical for comprehensive risk assessment. Each category contributes to developing effective prevention strategies and ensuring appropriate care interventions to minimize the risk of pressure ulcers in vulnerable patients.