Waterlow Score

Question 1

What is the waterlow score?

Answer 1

Assesses the risk of a patient developing a pressure sore

Question 2

What is included in the waterlow score?

Answer 2

1. Weight for height
2. Continence
3. Skin condition
4. Mobility
5. Sex and age
6. Appetite
7. Special risks:
   Tissue condition and perfusion
   Neurological dysfunction|
   Major surgery or trauma
   Medication

Question 3

What do the different scores of the waterlow score mean?

Answer 3

0-9 - low risk

10-14 - at risk

15-19 - high risk

20+ - very high risk

Question 4

What can be offered for patients with increased risk of a pressure sore?

Answer 4

A reassessment of the type of dressings used on the wound

Improving the quality of the mattress and duvet

An assessment of the patient’s nutritional needs to further aid healing.