NURSING AND USE OF THE BRADEN SCALE FOR PRESSURE ULCERS LA ENFERMERÍA Y LA UTILIZACIÓN DE LA ESCALA DE BRADEN EN ÚLCERA POR PRESIÓN

ABSTRACT ABSTRACT ABSTRACT: This study aimed to characterize the socio-demographic profile of patients with pressure ulcers, and to analyse them in terms of location, medical diagnosis and potential risk on the Braden Scale. An exploratory, descriptive study was made of 14 patients from three sectors of the Lauro Wanderley University Hospital in Joao Pessoa. In June and July, 2008, data were obtained by observation and recorded on an evaluation form using the Braden Scale. The results were: female (71%); age over 59 years (42.8%); ulcers located in the sacral region (50%); chronic degenerative diseases (40%); and high-risk (57.1%). The Braden Scale is of great value in nursing care because it permits efficient and effective curative and preventive intervention against pressure ulcers.