Analysis

The Norton Scale, also known as the Norton Pressure Ulcer Risk Assessment Scale, is a tool used to evaluate a patient’s risk of developing pressure ulcers (also known as bedsores). It was developed by Dr. Norton and colleagues to assist healthcare professionals in assessing patients’ risk factors and implementing preventive measures.

Objective

The main goal of the Norton Scale is to identify individuals at high risk of developing pressure ulcers so that appropriate preventive actions can be taken. The scale helps assess the risk based on various factors and guides the care team in planning and implementing prevention strategies.

Scoring

The Norton Scale includes several factors that assess different aspects such as physical and mental condition, mobility, and incontinence. Each factor is typically scored on a scale, and the total score is used to categorize the patient’s risk level. Lower scores indicate a higher risk of developing pressure ulcers.

References

Norton, D., McLaren, R., & Exton, M. (1962). The Norton Scale: A Risk Assessment for Pressure Ulcers. Nursing Times, 58, 21–25.
Bader, D. L., & Bader, D. L. (2003). Pressure Ulcers: Clinical Practice and Guidelines. Clinical Nursing Research, 12(1), 42–58.
Miller, T., & Kluchko, A. (1994). The Norton Scale: Clinical Applications and Effectiveness. Journal of Wound Care, 3(2), 98–104.
Braden, B. J., & Bergstrom, N. (2005). Risk Assessment for Pressure Ulcers: Braden Scale and Norton Scale. Journal of Nursing Care Quality, 20(3), 226–234.
Cuddigan, J., & Berlowitz, D. R. (2003). Pressure Ulcer Risk Assessment Tools: A Comparative Review. Journal of Clinical Nursing, 12(2), 146–155.