Nursing times
-
This overview has addressed some of the key principles relating to patient-controlled analgesia. It is important to remember that PCA will continue to develop in the future and new techniques are being devised. PCA can provide an effective method of analgesia for many patients. However, it is not the only form of analgesia available, therefore a thorough assessment must be made before starting to use this analgesic technique.
-
Pain is complex and difficult to define; Managing pain is challenging for all members of the interprofessional team; Untreated pain is harmful to the patient; Pain is a subjective and unique experience for the individual, which we, as health professionals, should not judge; Staff do not know best--listen to what the patient is telling you; Base your evaluation of pain upon a thorough clinical assessment and an evaluation of treatment/care. Use pain measurement tools to aid this process; Effective communication with patients is essential for effective pain management.