LAUSR

AIM To determine the 'inter-rater' and test-retest reliability of a pain location tool for children. MATERIALS & METHODS In children aged 5-14 years who had undergone a laparoscopic operation, pain scores at each of seven abdominal locations, and at the shoulder tip, were recorded at baseline and after a 5- and 30-min interval. RESULTS Intraclass correlation coefficients were predominantly in the 'moderate' to 'substantial' range for both 'inter-rater' and test-retest reliability. Three quarters of children would prefer an electronic version of the tool. Thematic analysis showed accuracy, usability, utility and usefulness were areas for future development. CONCLUSION Children can reliably indicate where they hurt after laparoscopic surgery. An electronic version could increase acceptability to children and usability by professionals.