Physiologic measurements in children's pain assessment are:

A) the best indicator of pain in children of all ages.
B) essential to determine whether a child is telling the truth about pain.
C) of most value when children also report having pain.
D) of limited value as sole indicator of pain.

Physiologic manifestations of pain may vary considerably, not providing a consistent measure of pain. Heart rate may increase or decrease. The same signs that may suggest fear, anxiety, or anger also indicate pain. In chronic pain, the body adapts, and these signs decrease or stabilize. Physiologic measurements are of limited value and must be viewed in the context of a pain-rating scale, behavioral assessment, and parental report. When the child states that pain exists, it does. That is the truth.