When assessing pain in a child, what method can be used for those who are nonverbal?

Behavioral observation is an effective method for assessing pain in nonverbal children. This approach involves closely monitoring a child's actions, reactions, and physiological responses to identify signs of discomfort. Nonverbal cues can include crying, grimacing, changes in activity level, withdrawal, or unusual movements. By recognizing these behaviors, healthcare providers can gauge the child's pain level effectively even if the child cannot articulate their feelings.

This method is particularly valuable in pediatric emergency care settings, where assessing pain quickly and accurately can aid in treatment decisions. Behavioral observation, combined with scale tools for older children who may provide visual or alternative descriptors, gives a comprehensive view of the child's pain experience.

Other methods such as the numerical rating scale or self-reporting rely on the child’s ability to communicate their feelings directly, which is often not possible for nonverbal children. Similarly, the facial expression scale may be used but typically requires some level of understanding and communication capability from the child, making it less suitable for those unable to express their pain verbally. Therefore, behavioral observation stands out as the most appropriate and practical method in these circumstances.