Patient-Controlled Analgesia (PCA)

Overview

While you are hospitalized, your doctor may choose to let you control your own pain medication with a device called a patient-controlled analgesia (or PCA) pump. This pump is especially helpful for patients who are recovering from surgery. Because you control your own medication, you can fight pain as soon as you begin to feel it.

How it Works

The PCA pump delivers pain medicine directly into your IV line. It is controlled by a computer that your doctor can program based on your needs. Your doctor may program it to release a steady stream of medication throughout the day and night. But not all patients need this steady flow. You will be given a controller with a button that you can press to inject medication on demand.

Preventing an Overdose

The pump is designed with your safety in mind. It will not let you give yourself too much medication. You can press the button as often as you like, but it will only give you a set amount of medication within a certain period of time. If the pump is not eliminating your pain, you should tell a nurse or doctor. The doctor may need to adjust your dosage or give you a different medication.

Only You Should Press the Button

Be aware that you should not press the button for another dose if you are feeling very sleepy. You should always be awake and alert when you decide you need more medication. Also, no one else should ever press the button for you, especially when you are asleep. Only you should press the button. By using your PCA pump as directed, you can keep your pain under control and make your recovery as pleasant as possible.

Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.