A conscious adult reports pain but cannot read the numbers on a numeric pain scale. Which assessment tool is most appropriate?
Correct answer: B. A faces pain scale with clear instructions
- A. A visual analogue line without explanation
- B. A faces pain scale with clear instructions
- C. A blood pressure reading as an indirect measure
- D. The nurse's estimate based on facial expression
Explanation
A faces scale can help a patient who cannot use a numeric scale, provided the nurse explains that the faces represent increasing pain intensity. Pain is subjective, so vital signs and facial expression should not replace the patient's reported assessment.
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About Vital Signs and Monitoring
Vital signs include temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure, oxygen saturation and pain assessment. Coverage includes correct measurement sites and techniques, normal adult ranges, factors that alter readings, trends in patient observations, and the difference between an abnormal finding that needs reassessment and one requiring immediate reporting.
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