Vertical Numeric 0-20 Pain Rating Scale
Description:
This scale is a visual analogue scale calibrated with numbers from 0-20
with the 21 points providing the maximum number of discrimination points
of pain sensation that humans can distinguish. Its advantages are that it
is quick and can be used reliably in cognitively intact older adults. It also
has greater sensitivity to detect change/differences than more basic
scales such as a verbal 0 to 10 scale or a verbal descriptor scale.
References:
Herr KA, Spratt K, Mobily PR, Richardson G. Pain intensity assessment in
older adults – use of experimental pain to compare psychometric
properties and usability of selected pain scales with younger adults. Clin J
Pain 2004; 20(4): 207-219.