I am watching all of the responses to pain scales with great interest. I
am shocked to see how many are opposed to them. If you read the pain
literature, I think you will find that they have reached a high level of
acceptance in almost every medical circle. I know of no anesthesia or
pain service that does not use them. There are even very simple ones for
young children. Really, Karen K-G is correct in her assertion that they
are "the head honcho of a non-judgemental way to assess pain." I also
like Karen's suggestion of a scale for interference....I'll try it.
Thanks!

I am also compelled to comment here about wimpiness vs. stoicism. They
ARE NOT opposites. Both represent a culturally induced magnification of
pain response. Neither is in any way helpful to birthing or
breastfeeding women or their care providers.

What I am seeking, when I talk about reference points etc. is a
sensation based response. If someone has more pain they should have more
response. Problem is, in our culture, we are much more likely to see one
of the extremes because we are a pain and death fearing culture that
tries to shield ourselves and our children from this reality. In the
absence of a sensation based response....a scale may be your most
reliable tool. Americans like to measure stuff!

Susan Keith-Hergert RN, MS, CPN, IBCLC
Mercy Health Partners
Cincinnati

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