Braden Score Calculator
Total the six Braden Scale domains and identify a pressure injury risk category for clinical assessment.
Braden Scale assessment
Enter the documented domain rating. Five domains use 1 to 4; friction and shear uses 1 to 3.
About the Braden Scale
The Braden Scale is a structured clinical assessment used to estimate a patient's risk of developing a pressure injury. It organizes observations into six domains: sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, and friction and shear. Lower scores represent greater exposure to pressure or reduced ability to respond to it. The tool supports, rather than replaces, a full skin assessment and professional judgment.
Sensory perception describes the ability to recognize and respond meaningfully to pressure-related discomfort. Moisture considers how often skin is exposed to perspiration, urine, wound drainage, or other moisture. Activity records the degree of physical activity, from bedfast to walking frequently. Mobility considers the ability to change and control body position independently. Nutrition reflects the usual pattern of food and fluid intake. Friction and shear captures the risk created when skin moves against a surface or the body slides in a bed or chair.
The first five domains are rated from one to four and friction and shear is rated from one to three. Adding the six ratings produces a total from 6 to 23. Common interpretation bands classify 9 or less as very high risk, 10 to 12 as high risk, 13 to 14 as moderate risk, 15 to 18 as mild risk, and 19 to 23 as minimal risk. Facilities may use different cutoffs or modify them for particular populations, so local policy takes priority.
A score is a snapshot. Acute illness, sedation, surgery, changes in circulation, fever, incontinence, appetite, devices, and mobility can change risk quickly. Reassessment frequency should reflect the care setting and the patient's condition. Prevention plans may include regular repositioning, pressure-redistributing surfaces, heel protection, moisture management, nutritional support, device checks, and patient or caregiver education.
This calculator performs only the arithmetic and displays a conventional category. It does not choose domain ratings, diagnose a pressure injury, or prescribe care. Healthcare professionals should inspect the skin, document the rationale for every rating, address individual risks even when the total appears favorable, and escalate new discoloration, pain, warmth, tissue change, or skin breakdown according to clinical protocol.
Braden score examples
| Six domain scores | Total and category | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| 1, 2, 1, 1, 2, 1 | 8, very high risk | Severe limitations across several domains produce a low total. |
| 3, 3, 2, 3, 3, 2 | 16, mild risk | Several partial limitations still warrant preventive planning. |
| 4, 4, 4, 4, 4, 3 | 23, minimal risk | The maximum rating in every domain produces the highest total. |
How to calculate a Braden score
- Assess sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, and nutrition using the validated domain descriptions.
- Assess friction and shear on its three-point scale.
- Enter one documented whole-number rating for each domain.
- Select Calculate Braden score and compare the result with your local care protocol.
Braden Score FAQ
What is the possible Braden score range?
The total ranges from 6 to 23. A lower total generally indicates a greater risk of pressure injury.
Why does friction and shear stop at three?
The validated Braden Scale defines three ratings for that domain, unlike the four ratings used by the other five domains. The calculator preserves that scoring structure.
How often should the scale be repeated?
Frequency depends on the care setting, condition, and local policy. Reassess when clinical status changes because risk can shift rapidly.
Does a high score rule out pressure injury?
No. A total score cannot replace direct skin inspection or account for every device and individual factor.
Can patients use this calculator at home?
The arithmetic is available to anyone, but assigning domain scores requires the validated criteria and clinical context. Concerns about skin damage should be evaluated by a qualified professional.