Pain scale for pts w/dementia?

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I often find myself using the FLACC scale (for infants) when assessing pain in elderly pts with dementia when they are unable to rate/describe their pain or understand the FACES scale of 1-10 we usually use. The problem is that the FLACC scale isn't really appropriate either.

Does anyone know of a pain scale similar to the infant scale that is more geared to the elderly? I can't help but think that someone out there must have come up with one since we have to assess pain on pts such as these all the time!

Thanks for any input.

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Specializes in ER/Geriatrics.

I don't have the name of a painscale off the top of my head though I am sure I have something at work in my office. When I was at the bedside I would watch for facial grimacing, eyes closed, agitation, decreased appetite, mobility etc.

Hope that helps.

Liz

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I was told also to use HR as a guide as well.

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Specializes in ER/Geriatrics.

Tachycardia is always a red flag in seniors.........Liz

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