American Association of Critical-Care Nurses (AACN) Certification Practice Test

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Prepare for the AACN Certification Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question comes with hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

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What is the purpose of the Braden Scale?

Assess pain levels
Predict pressure ulcer risk
Evaluate nutritional status
Determine severity of infection

The correct answer is: Predict pressure ulcer risk

The Braden Scale is specifically designed to predict the risk of pressure ulcer development in individuals, particularly those who are immobile or have limited mobility. It takes into account various factors such as sensory perception, moisture, activity level, mobility, nutrition, and friction/shear. By evaluating these factors, healthcare providers can identify patients who are at higher risk for pressure ulcers and implement preventive measures to protect their skin. This tool is widely used in clinical settings because preventing pressure ulcers is crucial for improving patient outcomes, reducing healthcare costs, and enhancing the overall quality of care. While other scales and assessments exist for evaluating pain levels, nutritional status, or severity of infection, the Braden Scale is specifically focused on assessing the risk for pressure ulcer formation, making it a unique and valuable component of patient care strategies.