Dear patient,
Over the next few days you will be having an operation. You have probably received a lot of information from your doctors and nurses, as well as from your friends and family.
This information sheet has been given to you because your doctors think that, in addition to the usual medication, you would benefit from a PCA pump as a method of analgesia (pain relief). Below you will find more information about this device.
We hope that you find the answers to any questions you may have. If not, please don’t hesitate to ask your doctors or the nursing staff.
What is PCA?
PCA, Patient-Controlled Analgesia, is a pump that your anaesthetist programmes to relieve your pain and provide you with maximum comfort. It consists of a reservoir that contains a painkiller and a device that you can control with a push button. By pressing the button, you activate the pump which delivers the programmed dose of painkiller to you. You decide when you want to take the medication.
Which painkiller will I receive?
In order to provide you with optimal effectiveness while using the lowest possible doses, you will be given a painkiller from the morphine family combined with other painkillers (paracetamol, tramadol, antiinflammatory,…). Morphine drugs administered for post-operative pain do not entail any risk of addiction.
Will PCA give me complete relief?
Perception of pain varies from one individual to another, but the methods used to combat it help to minimise feelings of pain. So don’t hesitate to use your pump if you are in pain.
How do I use the PCA pump?
As soon as you arrive in the recovery room, the system is switched on and connected to your drip. It is very easy to use: if you feel the onset of pain, don’t wait any longer and press the push button.
If after a few minutes your pain is not sufficiently relieved, press the button again and repeat if necessary until you achieve a sufficient level of pain relief.
Don’t worry, the pump is programmed not to exceed permitted doses.
Are there any side effects?
Side effects are rare. Sometimes you may experi- ence nausea, vomiting, or fatigue.
Do not hesitate to inform the nursing staff. The mobile anaesthesia team will visit you regularly to assess your pain and make sure you are comfortable. When they visit, you should inform them of any discomfort you are experiencing (such as drowsiness, nausea, stomach pain, itching,…) and ask them any questions.
The anaesthesia team (doctors and nurses) is available and welcomes all feedback, comments
and criticisms.
Thank you for your trust in us!
For more information:
Don’t hesitate to ask your doctor or nursing staff if you have any questions.