In this study we investigate the language used by nurses in the characterization of postoperative pain. In order to do this, an instrument was elaborated containing initially 308 pain descriptors, which were studied as to their apparent and content validity. After this study, using 119 descriptors, the instrument was applied to 116 nurses. The category estimation method was used, with scores varying from 1 to 7. The mean score and standard deviation were calculated for the scores obtained. The descriptors of highest ascriptions were, in a decreasing order: intense, strong, acute, unbearable and continuous; those of lower ascriptions were: circulating, assailing, circular, slow and formidable.
category estimation; postoperative pain; pain measurement
