PCA's in PACU

Specialties PACU

Published

Is there any hospitals out there where PACU starts the PCA pump for the patient instead of waiting till the patient gets to the floor?

Specializes in PACU.

We start the PCA in our PACU. It seems to help relieve pain sooner that way.

Specializes in Dermatology, GI, and PACU.

We start all of our PCA's in PACU. Although today I have an order to start the PCA if the patient can't tolerate PO fluids or no pain control with Lortab. So if this patient needs the PCA they won't get it until they get on the floor.

Specializes in PACU,Trauma ICU,CVICU,Med-Surg,EENT.

If the pt is awake/alert and pain has been brought under control,we give them the PCA teaching and they start administering it. Even if someone is still too sleepy to have it started,it is ALWAYS connected up in PACU -has to be right at the hub of the intercath,so we have to take down the IV drsg - the control won't be given to them though - that happens up on the floor once they're wide awake.

Specializes in Med surg, Critical Care, LTC.

We always start PCA's in PACU. It is often the only pain relief we have. Obviously patients who've had Duramorph in their spinals will have to wait for the PCA, but if it was a spinal/epidural without duramorph, the we can start the PCA.

My problem is the PCA is considered a high risk med, and is suppose to be signed by two nurses. We have a small hospital. So, when I'm on call, I'm the only one in PACU in the middle of the night. Usually, the OR has left within 15-20 min. What do you all do if you need another signature?

Calling the supervisor helps depending upon which supervisor is working. Some just don't want to work.

I often triple check myself and then start the PCA, as I don't want my patient in pain.

Suggestions appreciated.

We always start PCA's in PACU. It is often the only pain relief we have. Obviously patients who've had Duramorph in their spinals will have to wait for the PCA, but if it was a spinal/epidural without duramorph, the we can start the PCA.

My problem is the PCA is considered a high risk med, and is suppose to be signed by two nurses. We have a small hospital. So, when I'm on call, I'm the only one in PACU in the middle of the night. Usually, the OR has left within 15-20 min. What do you all do if you need another signature?

Calling the supervisor helps depending upon which supervisor is working. Some just don't want to work.

I often triple check myself and then start the PCA, as I don't want my patient in pain.

Suggestions appreciated.

Not a nurse here but have an idea, though I am not sure if it is feesable. Find out what they are planning to write for before the surgery is over. Then you can get it ready, and before leaving the OR nurse can check it. Since I am not a nurse, I obviously do not know if this would work.

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