https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8966-3799
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Abstract
Introduction
Pain is both difficult to see and to articulate and this is challenging for both patients and clinicians. The aim of this study was to develop and test pictograms to describe different pain qualities.
Methods
22 pictograms were developed for evaluation based on pain qualities of the short form McGill Pain Questionnaire, version 2 (SF-MPQ-2). An online matching survey was conducted and disseminated via social media in 2021.
Results
An overall matching of 66% or higher between pictogram and pain qualities descriptors was considered a proper matching. This study was carried out internationally (males = 57, age=41y.o. ±16; females = 155, age=41y.o.±17) and in Poland (males=49, age =35y.o.±17; females = 164, age=35y.o.±16). There were 14 pictograms that did not achieve 66% matching in any country. 8 pictograms mutually in all subgroups achieved a matching score of ≥66% regardless of geographic location, sex, income, or education level.
Discussion and Conclusions
These 8 pictograms can be used clinically once they have been redrawn to improve consistency, and future research in the design of pictograms representing pain qualities of the SF-MPQ-2 should focus on design improvements for the remaining 14 pain qualities with poor comprehensibility.
Ethics Approval and Informed Consent
This study was reviewed and approved by the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO) Research Ethics Board. Consent from participants was assumed if they completed the study questionnaire. We confirm that our study complies with the Declaration of Helsinki.
Consent for Publication
We confirm that the details of any images, videos, recordings, etc can be published.
Acknowledgment
SF-MPQ-2 contact information and permission to use: Mapi Research Trust, Lyon, France, https://eprovide.mapi-trust.org.
Author Contributions
All authors made a significant contribution to the work reported, whether that is in the conception, study design, execution, acquisition of data, analysis and interpretation, or in all these areas; took part in drafting, revising or critically reviewing the article; gave final approval of the version to be published; have agreed on the journal to which the article has been submitted; and agree to be accountable for all aspects of the work.
Disclosure
The authors report no conflicts of interest in this work.