Patient perspectives of patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) and methods for improving pain control and patient satisfaction.

ABSTRACT:

Background and objectives

This study aimed to (1) identify patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) attributes that negatively impact patient satisfaction and ability to control pain while using PCA and (2) obtain data on patient perceptions of new PCA design features.

Methods

We conducted a prospective survey study of postoperative pain control among patients using a PCA device. The survey was designed to evaluate patient satisfaction with pain control, understanding of PCA, difficulties using PCA, lockout-period management, and evaluation of new PCA design features.

Results

A total of 350 eligible patients completed the survey (91%). Patients who had difficulties using PCA were less satisfied (P < 0.001) and were more likely to feel unable to control their pain (P < 0.001

SUBMITTER: Patak LS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3717314 | biostudies-literature | 2013 Jul-Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature