Which method is commonly used to assess pain levels in inpatient patients?

Standardized pain scales, such as the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) or Wong-Baker FACES scale, are widely recognized and effective methods for assessing pain levels in inpatient patients. These scales allow healthcare providers to obtain a subjective report of the patient's pain intensity, which is crucial for appropriate pain management.

The NRS typically involves asking patients to rate their pain on a scale from 0 to 10, where 0 means no pain and 10 represents the worst pain imaginable. The Wong-Baker FACES scale uses facial expressions to help patients, especially children or those with communication difficulties, convey their pain levels more intuitively. Both methods facilitate clear communication about pain, support clinical decision-making regarding treatment, and track changes in pain over time.

In contrast, other methods listed, such as visual acuity tests, pulse oximetry readings, or temperature checks, are not appropriate for pain assessment. Visual acuity tests measure sight, pulse oximetry checks oxygen saturation in the blood, and temperature checks evaluate body temperature; none of these provide direct information about a patient's pain experience.