The Development and Validation of the Khon Kaen University Pediatric Pain Assessment Tool for School-Aged Isaan Children in Thailand

Abstract

This research was aimed at developing a tool for pain assessment specifically for parents to use with children of the Isaan culture of Northeast Thailand. The Khon Kaen University (KKU) Pediatric Pain Assessment Tool was first constructed through the use of a qualitative study and literature reviews. Then, it was modified using the results of a pilot study with 38 stakeholders. Seventeen nurses, 150 postoperative children, and 150 family caregivers participated in a study comparing the tool with the standard Faces Scale and Numeric Rating Scale. Results revealed no difference in children's pain scores, as well as no statistical difference in children's pain score ratings between the three groups, suggesting the new tool is appropriate for Isaan children.