Certified Wound Ostomy Nurse (CWON) Practice Test

What does a score of 4 in the nutrition category of the Braden Scale signify?

1. NPO or clear liquids for more than 5 days

2. Generally eats 1/2 of food offered

3. Eats over half of most meals

4. Eats most of every meal and never refuses meal

The correct answer is: Eats most of every meal and never refuses meal

A score of 4 in the nutrition category of the Braden Scale indicates that the individual eats most of every meal and never refuses meals. This scoring reflects good nutritional intake, which is essential for maintaining skin integrity and supporting healing processes. Adequate nutrition plays a crucial role in the prevention of pressure ulcers, as it provides the necessary energy and nutrients for cell repair and regeneration. The Braden Scale is a tool used to assess a patient's risk for developing pressure ulcers, and the nutrition category specifically evaluates a patient's dietary intake. A score of 4 demonstrates that the individual is likely receiving sufficient nutrition to support their overall health and reduce the risk of skin breakdown, emphasizing the importance of both the quantity and quality of food consumed. Thus, this score categorically reflects a positive nutritional status essential for recovery and health maintenance.