A patient-education tool for patient-controlled analgesia.
OBJECTIVE
To develop a pamphlet for educating patients about patient-controlled analgesia (PCA).


METHODS
Journal articles and pump manufacturers' materials.


RESULTS
This pamphlet defines PCA and describes PCA pump operation, pain assessment, medication side effects, and safety considerations. A numerical pain-assessment tool also is included.


CONCLUSIONS
This pamphlet has been helpful in assisting patients to use PCA pumps effectively.


CONCLUSIONS
Nurses can use this tool to educate patients requiring PCA therapy for pain management.
Wholihan
D
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Bronx Veterans Affairs Medical Center, New York, USA.
D016058:Analgesia, Patient-Controlled / Q000451:nursing*; D006801:Humans; D010174:Pamphlets; D010353:Patient Education as Topic / Q000379:methods*; D013664:Teaching Materials