title: Patient-controlled analgesia.
abstract: In appropriately selected patients, PCA safely provides analgesia superior to that obtained with traditional IM prn opioid administration; however, to date, no compelling evidence shows that PCA is associated with a reduction in morbidity or a more rapid recovery. PCA is deceptively easy to prescribe; however, to use it effectively and safely requires experience, frequent patient assessment, and a skilled and knowledgeable nursing staff.
authors.affiliation: Wickham Terrace Anaesthesia, Arnold Janssen Centre, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
authors.forename: R C
authors.initials: RC
authors.lastname: Etches
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D016058:Analgesia, Patient-Controlled / Q000295:instrumentation; D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D006801:Humans; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous; D007275:Injections, Intravenous; D010149:Postoperative Pain / Q000517:prevention & control*; D018579:Patient Selection; D012119:Respiration / Q000187:drug effects; D012449:Safety
chemical_list: D000701:Analgesics, Opioid