[A study for assessing accuracy rates of pain rating scales (KPRS and VAS)].

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to identify the accuracy rates(hit ratio) which mean the degree of concordance between pain rating scale differences over time & subjective comparisons. Subjective comparisons mean the responses to the question "how does the pain you are now experiencing compare with the one at the time of the assessment yesterday?". Answers to this question were translated into 'greater', 'same', or 'less'. KPRS (Korean Pain Rating Scale) was developed through 4 consecutive studies to assess pain extensively & accurately by Lee etc. VAS (Visual Analogue Scale) was reported as valid & reliable measure for the intensity of pain by many researchers. Thirty hospitalized patients with complaints of headache participated in this study during the period from May 1 to July 31, 1987. In conclusion, the accuracy rates of KPRS and VAS were 60%, 67%, respectively.