Observation measures to be used in the medical setting
| Author and instrument | Method | Variables |
| Katz et al (1980).1 The procedure behaviour rating scale (PBRS-R) | 8 months to 17 years; the observer registers the presence/absence of behaviours at four specific moments in time; the degree of discomfort is determined by the total number of behaviours registered | 25 (reduced to 13) distress behaviour categories indicating distress (for example, tears, screams, resisting, refusal position) |
| LeBaron and Zeltzer (1984).5 The procedure behaviour checklist (PBCL is based on the PBRS-R) | 6–18 year olds; the observer rates their intensity on a 1–5 scale (1, very mild; 5, extremely intense); good reliability and validity | 13 (reduced to 8) distress behaviour categories (for example, pain verbalised, screams, anxiety verbalised) |
| Jay and Elliott (1984; 1986).6 7 Observation scale for behavioural distress (OSBD)1-150 | 6 months to 20 years; number and intensity of distress behaviour before/during/after the procedure; multiple behaviours during 15 second intervals; presence/absence; structured recording sheet; good reliability and validity | 11 (reduced to 8) distress behaviours (table 2) |
↵1-150 Available from first author.