Verbal Descriptor Scale - Pain Thermometer
Instructions detailing the use of the Pain Thermometer to assess pain intensity for persons able to self report and is the best choice for most older adults.
| Purpose: | This scale is used to assess pain intensity in persons who are able to self report and is the best choice for most older adults.
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When to Use: | Use the Verbal Descriptor Scale (Pain Thermometer) - At admission
- At each quarterly nursing review
- Each shift in resident with pain
- Each time a change in resident pain status is reported
- Following a pain intervention to evaluate treatment effectiveness
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| How to Use: | Ask the older adult to point to the words on the thermometer to show how bad or severe their pain is right NOW. Compare the words chosen after each use to the previous words to evaluate if pain has increased or decreased.
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| Documentation: | Document/record all scores in a location that is readily accessible by other health care providers.
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| Note: | To use as a pocket guide, print the Pain Thermometer and directions document front to back on card stock paper to create two tools. Cut to size and laminate for increased durability. |
Herr, K. & Mobily, P. (1993). Comparison of selected pain assessment tools for use with the elderly. Applied Nursing Research, 6(1), 39-46.
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