FLACC scale


The FLACC scale or Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability scale is a measurement used to assess pain for children between the ages of 2 months and 7 years or individuals that are unable to communicate their pain. The scale is scored in a range of 0–10 with 0 representing no pain. The scale has five criteria, which are each assigned a score of 0, 1 or 2.
CriteriaScore 0Score 1Score 2
FaceNo particular expression or smileOccasional grimace or frown, withdrawn, uninterestedFrequent to constant quivering chin, clenched jaw
LegsNormal position or relaxedUneasy, restless, tenseKicking, or legs drawn up
ActivityLying quietly, normal position, moves easilySquirming, shifting, back and forth, tenseArched, rigid or jerking
CryNo cry Moans or whimpers; occasional complaintCrying steadily, screams or sobs, frequent complaints
ConsolabilityContent, relaxedReassured by occasional touching, hugging or being talked to, distractibleDifficult to console or comfort

The FLACC scale has also been found to be accurate for use with adults in intensive-care units who are unable to speak due to intubation. The FLACC scale offered the same evaluation of pain as did the Checklist of Nonverbal Pain Indicators scale which is used in ICUs.