The original FLACC (Face, Legs, Activity, Cry, Consolability) Behavioral Scale was intended to evaluate young children who may not be able to accurately verbalize postoperative pain and discomfort. Malviya et al revised the score and tested it on children with developmental delay. The authors are from the University of Michigan.
The revision consists of expanding the descriptive findings in most of the parameters.
Patient selection: age from 4 to 19 years
Parameters:
(1) face
(2) legs
(3) activity
(4) cry
(5) consolability
Parameter
Finding
Points
face
no particular expression or smile
0
occasional grimace or frown, withdrawn, disinterested; appears sad or worried
1
frequent to constant quivering chin, clenched jaw; distressed looking face; expression of fright or panic
2
legs
normal position or relaxed, with usual muscle tone and motion to limbs
0
uneasy, restless, tense; occasional tremors
1
kicking, or legs drawn up; marked increase in spasticity; constant tremors or jerking
2
activity
lying quietly, normal position, moves easily; regular and rhythmic respirations
0
squirming, shifting back and forth, tense or guarded movements; mildly agitated; shallow, splinting respirations; intermittent sighs
1
arched, rigid or jerking; severe agitation; head banging; shivering; breath holding; severe splinting; gasping or sharp intake of breaths
2
cry
no cry (awake or asleep)
0
moans or whimpers, occasional complaints; occasional verbal outburst or grunt
