Validated methods for quantitative assessment of pain 71
Visual analogue scale Use a 100 mm line as shown below.
0 No pain
100 Maximum pain
Ask the patient to mark their level of pain on the line.
Numerical rating scale The patient is asked to state a number that equates to their level of pain, where 0 = no pain, and 10 = the most severe pain, as shown in Table 7.2.( This scale is also known as the verbal analogue scale.)
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Table 7.2: The numerical rating scale |
Descriptive term |
Quantitative value |
Severe pain |
7 – 10 |
Moderate pain |
4 – 6 |
Mild pain |
1 – 3 |
No pain |
0 |
Effective management of pain
In a triage setting, musculoskeletal pain can be effectively reduced through simple measures such as rest, ice, compression and elevation( RICE). 23, 61, 63 The administration of pharmacological agents within the triage area can be problematic. This practice needs to be supported by institutional policies and procedures, and should be considered by individual departments, taking into account the physical organisation of the triage area and the ability to reassess, monitor and evaluate patients.
Department of Health and Ageing – Emergency Triage Education Kit