Assessing Patients for Pressure Injury Risk
Summary: This blog reviews pressure injury (PI) risk assessment tools like Braden (now paid via bradenscale.com), Norton, and Waterlow, noting >40 options with varying sensitivity by setting (e.g., ICU vs home). Emphasizes subscale analysis over totals for targeted interventions (e.g., moisture subscale for incontinence). Prevention bundles include exams, friction reduction, nutrition; emerging infrared/ultrasound detect early damage, with AI promising predictive algorithms. Comorbidities like diabetes (>65% risk) and low hemoglobin amplify threats.
Key Highlights:
- Tools: Braden (subscales for moisture/mobility); Norton/Waterlow for specificity.
- Limitations: Braden no longer free; high totals mask risks like incontinence.
- Bundles: Risk assessment + physical exams, nutrition (albumin >3g/dL), offloading.
- Comorbidities: Diabetes, age >65, vasopressors increase risk 2-5x.
- Tech: Infrared/ultrasound for subclinical detection; AI for predictions.
Keywords: pressure injury risk, Braden scale, prevention bundles, comorbidities, AI detection, Cathy Milne