Multisite Web-based training in using the Braden Scale to predict pressure sore risk.

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Patient Safety
• Wound Care

Background:

• Pressure ulcers represent a significant patient safety concern.
• Accurate risk assessment using tools like the Braden Scale is crucial for prevention.
• Nurses require effective training to utilize risk assessment tools competently.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of a Web-based Braden Scale training module.
• To assess nurses' knowledge and competence in pressure ulcer risk assessment and prevention.
• To examine nurses' perceptions of the training program's adequacy and usability.

Main Methods:

• A pre-experimental, posttest-only design was employed.
• The study utilized a Web-based learning environment.
• 1391 registered nurses from three Midwest medical centers participated.

Main Results:

• Nurses achieved 82.6% accuracy in rating Braden Scale risk levels post-training.
• Reliability in rating Braden subscales was higher for extreme risk levels compared to moderate levels.
• Nurses demonstrated high knowledge of interventions but poor correlation between scoring accuracy and intervention selection.

Conclusions:

• Web-based training alone may be insufficient for ensuring reliable pressure ulcer risk assessment across all patient risk levels.
• Integrating clinical practice with expert supervision is recommended alongside online training.
• Further research is needed to understand the relationship between accurate Braden Scale scoring and appropriate preventive intervention selection.