A nurse is evaluating the pain level of a toddler who is cognitively impaired to a non-pharmacologic intervention. Which of the following pain scales should the nurse use to evaluate the toddler’s pain level?

The correct answer is Choice A.Choice A rationaleThe FLACC scale (Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability) is designed to assess pain in children who are unable to communicate their pain verbally, including those who are cognitively impaired. It evaluates five categories: facial expression, leg movement, activity, cry, and consolability, each scored from 0 to 2, with a total score ranging from 0 to 1012.Choice B rationaleThe FACES pain scale is a self-report tool that uses facial expressions to help children aged 3 and older communicate their pain level. It is not suitable for toddlers who are cognitively impaired and unable to self-report.Choice C rationaleThe Visual Analog Scale (VAS) is a unidimensional measure of pain intensity, typically used in older children and adults who can understand and mark their pain level on a continuum. It is not appropriate for toddlers who are cognitively impaired.Choice D rationaleThe CRIES scale is used to assess pain in neonates and infants, particularly postoperatively. It evaluates crying, oxygen requirement, increased vital signs, facial expression, and sleeplessness. It is not designed for toddlers.