The REEDA scale is a standardized clinical tool designed to evaluate the healing process of a wound. The acronym REEDA stands for Redness, Edema, Ecchymosis, Discharge, and Approximation. Healthcare professionals use this instrument to systematically assess five key characteristics of wound healing, providing an objective measure for monitoring a patient’s recovery. This assessment method was originally developed to track healing in trauma associated with childbirth.
The Purpose of the REEDA Assessment
The primary purpose of the REEDA assessment is to provide a consistent and objective method for monitoring wound recovery, particularly in the postpartum period. It is most frequently applied to evaluate the healing of perineal lacerations, tears, or surgical incisions like episiotomies that occur during delivery. By quantifying specific signs of inflammation and tissue integrity, the scale helps identify potential complications such as infection or delayed healing.
The scale assigns a numerical score to the severity of each of the five components, allowing clinicians to track the wound’s status over time. Using this standardized tool helps reduce the subjectivity that can occur when different providers assess a wound’s condition. This structured evaluation guides timely interventions to ensure a smoother recovery. The assessment is typically performed during routine postpartum check-ups, often between 7 and 10 days after delivery.
Decoding Each Letter of REEDA
Each letter in the REEDA acronym represents a specific physical characteristic evaluated by the clinician.
R: Redness
R stands for Redness (or erythema), referring to the intensity and extent of discoloration around the incision site. While a small amount of redness is expected as part of the normal inflammatory response, excessive or spreading redness can indicate infection.
E: Edema
E stands for Edema, which is swelling caused by fluid accumulation in the surrounding tissues. The assessment measures the degree of swelling and how far it extends from the incision line, as excessive edema can impede the healing process.
E: Ecchymosis
The second E is Ecchymosis, the medical term for bruising or discoloration due to bleeding underneath the surface. The size and presence of ecchymosis are noted, as a large or expanding bruise might indicate a hematoma or other complication.
D: Discharge
D represents Discharge, involving observation of the type, amount, and odor of any fluid draining from the wound. Normal healing may involve minimal serous (clear, watery) discharge. However, the presence of serosanguinous (pinkish), bloody, or purulent (pus-like) drainage is a sign of potential complications.
A: Approximation
A stands for Approximation, which evaluates how well the wound edges are brought together and held in close contact by sutures or staples. A well-approximated wound has its edges neatly touching. Poor approximation indicates separation or dehiscence, where the layers have pulled apart.
Understanding Assessment Results
The REEDA scale uses a scoring system where points are assigned to each of the five components based on severity, typically ranging from zero (normal) to a maximum score, often 15. A lower total score indicates a better healing trajectory with minimal signs of inflammation or complication. Conversely, a high score suggests poor healing, and elevated scores highlight the exact nature of the problem.
A finding of purulent discharge or significant skin separation indicates a serious issue requiring immediate clinical action. For example, poor approximation means the wound is at high risk of opening, potentially necessitating further surgical intervention. Worsening redness or swelling, especially if accompanied by a foul odor or fever, are strong indicators of an infection requiring prompt medical attention. The REEDA assessment provides the medical team with the data necessary to adjust the care plan, which may involve antibiotics, more frequent cleaning, or other therapies.