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Updated: Jul 10, 2026
Electrophysiological Measurements and Analysis of Nociception in Human Infants
Published on: December 20, 2011
Evidence-based assessment of pediatric pain
Lindsey L Cohen1, Kathleen Lemanek, Ronald L Blount
1Department of Psychology, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA 30302-5010, USA. llcohen@gsu.edu
Objective:
To conduct an evidence-based review of pediatric pain measures.
Methods:
Seventeen measures were examined, spanning pain intensity self-report, questionnaires and diaries, and behavioral observations. Measures were classified as "Well-established," "Approaching well-established," or "Promising" according to established criteria. Information was highlighted to help professionals evaluate the instruments for particular purposes (e.g., research, clinical work).
Results:
Eleven measures met criteria for "Well-established," six "Approaching well-established," and zero were classified as "Promising."
Conclusions:
There are a number of strong measures for assessing children's pain, which allows professionals options to meet their particular needs. Future directions in pain assessment are identified, such as highlighting culture and the impact of pain on functioning. This review examines the research and characteristics of some of the commonly used pain tools in hopes that the reader will be able to use this evidence-based approach and the information in future selection of assessment devices for pediatric pain.
