FACES Scale
A behavioral pain assessment tool using facial expressions to evaluate pain intensity in children aged 3 years and older.
Full Definition
The FACES Pain Scale-Revised is a self-report pain assessment tool designed for pediatric patients who can understand and respond to facial expression cues. It consists of six faces showing increasing levels of pain from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst pain). Unlike numerical scales, it provides a visual representation that children can easily comprehend and use to communicate their pain level. The scale is particularly valuable in pediatric anesthesia for preoperative anxiety assessment and postoperative pain monitoring.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize FACES when referring to the specific scale; distinguish from general facial assessment methods.
In Context
- "The nurse used the FACES Scale to assess the 5-year-old's postoperative pain level." — Pain assessment documentation
- "FACES Scale scores of 4 or higher typically warrant analgesic intervention in pediatric patients." — Clinical protocol