Do risk assessment scales for pressure ulcers work?

Risk assessment scales are widely used to measure the risk of pressure ulcers in the clinical area. They have been subject to many validation studies; however these have focused on the predictive ability of the scales. We have conducted several studies that consider the validity of pressure ulcer risk assessment scales.

The impact of pressure ulcer risk assessment on patient outcomes among hospitalised patients.

Aims And Objectives: To determine whether use of a risk assessment scale reduces nosocomial pressure ulcers.

Background: There is contradictory evidence concerning the validity of risk assessment scales. The interaction of education, clinical judgement and use of risk assessment scales has not been fully explored.

Thematic analysis of written assignment feedback: implications for nurse education.

This paper is a thematic review of the literature on written assignment feedback. Feedback is now accepted as a key factor affecting learning and, in educational settings, the term feedback is used in the context of assessments, where its main function is to provide information about students' current performance as well as constructive comments that enhances future learning. Theoretical frameworks for interpreting students' responses to feedback are reviewed.

Norton, Waterlow and Braden scores: a review of the literature and a comparison between the scores and clinical judgement.

Aims And Objectives: To consider the validity and reliability of risk assessment scales for pressure ulcers.

Background: Pressure ulcers are a major problem worldwide. They cause morbidity and lead to mortality.