Which Braden Scale domain most directly informs prevention planning related to a patient’s ability to move and reposition, and how is it used?

• A. Activity: It scores movement and ability to change positions to guide turning schedules.
• B. Mobility: It scores ability to reposition and guide turning schedules.
• C. Friction and Shear: It measures skin friction risk.
• D. Activity and Mobility: It scores movement and ability to change positions to guide turning schedules and prevention strategies.

Answer: (D)

Movement-related prevention planning hinges on understanding both how well a patient can move and how well they can change position. The Activity domain reflects the patient’s ability to move about in bed or chair, while the Mobility domain shows their capacity to reposition themselves or be repositioned by staff. Using both domains together gives the clearest guidance for turning schedules and prevention strategies, because if either domain is limited, more frequent repositioning and appropriate supports are indicated. Friction and shear pertains to the skin forces that contribute to breakdown but does not tell you about movement capability, so it doesn’t directly drive repositioning plans. In practice, scores from Activity and Mobility help determine how often to turn, when to assist with repositioning, and what devices or assistance are needed to prevent pressure injuries.