In nonverbal pain assessment, what resource identifies pain behaviors?

• A. IST with pain/needs behaviors
• B. Temperature chart
• C. Diet logs
• D. Sleep diary

Answer: (A)

Nonverbal pain assessment hinges on recognizing and recording observable signs of discomfort, since the person can’t verbalize their pain. A resource described as an IST with pain/needs behaviors is specifically designed to capture these observable pain indicators and the accompanying needs, turning what caregivers see into actionable information. It helps staff identify when pain may be present and decide on appropriate interventions, such as adjusting comfort measures or administering analgesics.

The other resources focus on data not tied to pain behaviors: a temperature chart tracks fever, a diet log records intake, and a sleep diary documents sleep patterns. While these are important for overall health, they don’t systematically identify or interpret pain-related behaviors in nonverbal individuals.