Norton Scale

Assess pressure ulcer risk with Norton Scale. Essential for nursing prevention strategies.

Important Medical Disclaimer

This calculator is an educational and clinical decision support tool. Results DO NOT replace professional medical evaluation, laboratory tests, or clinical judgment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis, treatment, and clinical decisions. Calculations are based on scientifically validated formulas but may not be applicable to all patients.

Norton Scale Calculator

About Norton Scale

The Norton Scale assesses pressure ulcer risk in hospitalized patients using 5 criteria scored 1-4 each. Total score: 5-20 points. Lower scores indicate higher risk. Validated tool for pressure injury prevention planning.

Each criterion is scored from 1 (highest risk) to 4 (lowest risk), with total scores ranging from 5-20 points. Scores of 14 or below indicate significant risk for pressure ulcer development and require preventive interventions. The scale is widely used in acute care, long-term care, and rehabilitation settings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Norton Scale?

The Norton Scale is one of the oldest and most widely used tools for assessing pressure ulcer (bedsore) risk in elderly patients. It evaluates 5 parameters: physical condition, mental condition, activity, mobility, and incontinence. Lower scores indicate higher risk.

What Norton Score indicates pressure ulcer risk?

14-20 = Low risk, 12-13 = Medium risk, <12 = High risk. The maximum score is 20 (lowest risk) and minimum is 5 (highest risk). Patients with scores ≤ 14 require preventive interventions.

How does Norton differ from Braden Scale?

Norton focuses more on physical and functional status, while Braden evaluates specific physiological factors affecting pressure ulcer development (sensory perception, moisture, activity, mobility, nutrition, friction/shear). Braden is more comprehensive for identifying causative factors.

What preventive measures are recommended for high-risk patients?

Reposition every 2 hours, use pressure-redistributing mattresses, maintain skin hygiene and moisture barrier, ensure adequate nutrition and hydration, minimize shear and friction, and conduct daily skin assessments. Individualize based on patient condition.

Scientific References

[1] Norton D, McLaren R, Exton-Smith AN. An Investigation of Geriatric Nursing Problems in Hospital. London: National Corporation for the Care of Old People; 1962.
[2] Norton D. Calculating the risk: reflections on the Norton Scale. Adv Wound Care. 1996;9(6):38-43.
[3] Pancorbo-Hidalgo PL, Garcia-Fernandez FP, Lopez-Medina IM, Alvarez-Nieto C. Risk assessment scales for pressure ulcer prevention: a systematic review. J Adv Nurs. 2006;54(1):94-110.
[4] Anthony D, Parboteeah S, Saleh M, Papanikolaou P. Norton, Waterlow and Braden scores: a review of the literature and a comparison between the scores and clinical judgement. J Clin Nurs. 2008;17(5):646-53.
[5] European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel, National Pressure Injury Advisory Panel and Pan Pacific Pressure Injury Alliance. Prevention and Treatment of Pressure Ulcers/Injuries: Clinical Practice Guideline. Emily Haesler (Ed.). EPUAP/NPIAP/PPPIA; 2019.