USING A RESEARCH-BASED ASSESSMENT SCALE IN CLINICAL-PRACTICE

Pressure ulcers are a major problem in the United States and around th e world. The key to preventing pressure ulcers is early identification of at-risk patients. This article describes the research base for ris k assessment using the Braden Scale and protocols keyed to specific ri sk-factor reduction as a means of decreasing the incidence of hospital -acquired pressure ulcers. Two examples of hospitals that implemented the Braden Scale and associated preventive protocols are presented, al ong with outcome data demonstrating a decrease in the incidence of ulc ers and the cost of care.