Certified Pediatric Nurse (CPN)

What is the best way to assess pain in a 2-year-old following a tonsillectomy?

1. Have the child rate their pain on a modified scale

2. Assume pain and administer analgesics regularly

3. Use the faces scale for pain assessment

4. Use the FLACC scale for pain rating

The correct answer is: Use the FLACC scale for pain rating

Using the FLACC scale for pain rating is particularly effective for assessing pain in a 2-year-old following a tonsillectomy. The FLACC scale is specifically designed for use with infants and young children who are unable to communicate their pain verbally, making it an appropriate choice for this age group. The FLACC scale evaluates pain based on five criteria: facial expression, leg movement, activity, cry, and consolability. Each category is scored from 0 to 2, resulting in a total score that helps determine the level of pain a child is experiencing. This method provides a structured approach for healthcare providers to assess pain in non-verbal young children, ensuring that appropriate interventions can be made promptly. It recognizes that children this age may not be able to accurately communicate feelings of pain, so a behavioral assessment through the FLACC scale allows for a more accurate understanding of the child's discomfort. Other options, while they may involve pain assessment, are less suited for this situation. For instance, a modified scale for self-reporting may not be reliable for a 2-year-old, as many children at this developmental stage lack the capability to adequately understand or express their pain levels. Similarly, simply assuming pain and administering analgesics regularly could overlook the necessity of