Pain Control after Surgery - Patient-Controlled Analgesia (PCA)

Patient-Controlled Analgesia (PCA) has become an acceptable and highly effective means of relieving post-operative pain. PCA is a medication-dispensing unit equipped with a pump attached to an intravenous line, which is inserted into a blood vessel in the patient's hand or arm. By means of a simple push button mechanism, the patient is allowed to self-administer doses of pain relieving medication (narcotic) on an 'as need' basis. However, prior to release from the hospital, the patient is weaned from the PCA and given oral medication to control pain.

A photo of the PCA pump that a patient may use for their own pain management.

Prior to surgery, the anesthesiologist and/or doctor will discuss post-operative pain and how it can be controlled. Patients who are given options feel more confident, comfortable, and reassured about their surgical outcomes.

Some of the advantages to PCA include:

1- The patient feels less apprehensive about pain following surgery because they know they have control in their hand - by simply pushing a button.

2- The physician determines the amount (dosage) based on the patient's weight to prevent an overdose.

3- Narcotic addiction can be avoided because the drug is taken on a short-term controlled basis.

4- Pain relief is available around the clock - no need to wait for a nurse to deliver pain medication.

5- Medication does not need to be swallowed or injected (e.g. shot).

6- The PCA unit is 'programmed' to control the dosage. The unit 'locks out' if the dosing frequency is exceeded.

7- The patient is assured they are receiving the correct medication and dose prescribed by their physician.

8- Doses are smaller and available more frequently, which helps prevent sleepiness and weakness.

9- Pain is more consistently controlled.

10- Dosing at regular intervals reduces the overall amount of medication needed to control pain.

11- Prior to expected activity (e.g. physical therapy, getting out of bed) the patient can self-dose to control pain during movement.

12- Most adults and children can use PCA. Overall, PCA can help patients recover quicker.

Patients who are given control over their pain ambulate sooner, which promotes circulation and healing.