Which statement demonstrates proper PCA use?

Which statement demonstrates proper PCA use?

• A. Visitors may push the PCA button.
• B. I should only press the PCA button when the pain is unbearable.
• C. Only I should push the PCA button.
• D. The PCA button can be pressed by a family member when I am asleep.

Answer: (C)

PCA is designed so the patient controls when to receive pain medication within built-in safety limits. The statement that only the patient should push the PCA button is the best choice because it preserves the patient’s autonomy to request relief while preventing others from administering doses. PCA devices have programmed dose limits and lockout intervals to reduce the risk of overdose, especially important if the patient is drowsy or asleep. Having a family member or visitor press the button bypasses these safety features and can lead to inappropriate dosing or respiratory risks. Also, PCA is meant to be used promptly when pain begins, not only when it becomes unbearable, to keep pain under better control.

PCA is designed so the patient controls when to receive pain medication within built-in safety limits. The statement that only the patient should push the PCA button is the best choice because it preserves the patient’s autonomy to request relief while preventing others from administering doses. PCA devices have programmed dose limits and lockout intervals to reduce the risk of overdose, especially important if the patient is drowsy or asleep. Having a family member or visitor press the button bypasses these safety features and can lead to inappropriate dosing or respiratory risks. Also, PCA is meant to be used promptly when pain begins, not only when it becomes unbearable, to keep pain under better control.