What is a Waterlow score chart?
The Waterlow score (or Waterlow scale) gives an estimated risk for the development of a pressure sore in a given patient. The tool was developed in 1985 by clinical nurse teacher Judy Waterlow.
When doing your shift assessment one of your patient has a Waterlow score of 20 which of the following mattress is appropriate for this score?
full mattress
20+: Very High Risk Patients with a score over 20 qualify for a full mattress replacement system. This can include alternating air mattresses, low air loss and fluidised bead mattresses.
Is Waterlow a risk assessment tool?
Although there are over 40 different assessment tools, the Waterlow pressure ulcer risk-assessment tool is the tool that is most widely used in the UK.
What does a Waterlow score of 22 mean?
a score of 10-14 indicates ‘at risk’ a score of 15-19 indicates ‘high risk’, and. a score of 20 and above indicates very high risk.
What is Waterlow score NHS?
The Waterlow assessment was designed and researched by Judy Waterlow. The Waterlow Score calculates the risk of pressure ulcers developing on an individual basis through a simple points-based system.
Why do we use Waterlow?
The primary aim of this tool is to assist you to assess risk of a patient/client developing a pressure ulcer.
How do you grade a pressure sore?
Grades of pressure sores
- grade I – skin discolouration, usually red, blue, purple or black.
- grade II – some skin loss or damage involving the top-most skin layers.
- grade III – necrosis (death) or damage to the skin patch, limited to the skin layers.
What is the Waterlow tool used for?
The Waterlow pressure ulcer risk assessment/prevention policy tool is, by far, the most frequently used system in the U.K. and it is also the most easily understood and used by nurses dealing directly with patient/clients. Intended for use by nurses, healthcare professionals and carers at the patient/client interface.
How often should Waterlow be done?
Waterlow reassessment will be repeated weekly or at each visit if seen 3 monthly/6 monthly/ annually or if they have deterioration in their condition or on hospital discharge. Risk assessment should support not replace clinical judgement.
What is Waterlow skin assessment?
The Waterlow assessment was designed and researched by Judy Waterlow. It calculates the risk of pressure ulcers developing on an individual basis through a simple points-based system.
What are the 4 stages of a pressure ulcer?
These are:
- Stage 1. The area looks red and feels warm to the touch.
- Stage 2. The area looks more damaged and may have an open sore, scrape, or blister.
- Stage 3. The area has a crater-like appearance due to damage below the skin’s surface.
- Stage 4. The area is severely damaged and a large wound is present.
What is the 30 degree tilt?
The 30° ’tilt’ is used to enhance patient comfort and reduce pressure over high risk areas. It should be used with, and not in place of, an appropriate pressure reducing support surface/mattress and in line with Trust pressure ulcer prevention protocols.