Visual/verbal analogue scales: examples of brief assessment methods to aid management of child and adult patients in clinical practice.
The flexible use of a visual/verbal analogue scale--the thermometer--is described as a means of monitoring patients' levels of cognitive fear, trust, pain and self-esteem during treatment visits. Variations for use with very young children and those with physical and learning disabilities are also described.
Chapman
H R
HR
Department of Clinical Psychology, Mid Sussex NHS Trust, The Princess Royal Hospital, Lewes Rd, Haywards Heath, W Sussex RH16 4EX. helen.chapman@tesco.net
Kirby-Turner
N
N
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D016854:Dental Anxiety / Q000175:diagnosis*; D003812:Dentist-Patient Relations; D006801:Humans; D010147:Pain Measurement / Q000379:methods*; D011581:Psychological Tests; D012649:Self Concept; D012647:Self-Assessment; D035502:Trust