Whatz-it - Pain Scale Communicator

The Whatz-it is a low tech color scale indicator which allows anyone with communication difficulties to express their level of pain. It uses a choice of eight magnetic tiles that the user moves from green (comfortable) to red (painful). The graduated color scale on the Whatz-it allows a selection of intensity rather than identifying an exact number or choosing an abstract facial expression.

Example: On a scale of 1-5, tell me how much it hurts? – fine for most people but not for a child with Autism who will give you their favorite number or one they recognize. Scales which use facial expression are equally confusing.

Using the Whatz-it has proved to be a gateway to improved care and more accurate diagnosis and treatment as well as inclusion in decision making and commenting in a variety of settings.