Summary
The Sources of Discomfort Scale (SODS) may be used to assess discomfort based on the identifiable source(s) of discomfort. This scale is therefore distinct from, and complementary to, other pain assessment scales for persons with dementia. It promises to broaden the understanding of what causes discomfort, and might lead to fresh approaches to better quality of care.
The various types of sources of discomfort have been categorized in terms of (1) physical discomfort, (ii) body position, and (iii) environmental sources.
“ …care modifications can be developed to address these discomforts. Using the SODS allows for exploration of discomfort beyond what has been available through previous assessments”
Reference
Cohen-Mansfield, J. Thein, K. [and] Marx, MS. [et al] (2016). Sources of discomfort in persons with dementia: scale and initial results. Behavioural Neurology. June 2015: 732832.
