Why Use PCA Pumps For Pain Management?
Those who work in the healthcare industry know that the two ways to regulate the rate and amount of fluids dispensed through an IV are through manual means and by using infusion pumps. Patient-controlled analgesia (or PCA) pumps are just one type of pump commonly found in hospital facilities and other healthcare centers. These pumps, which include Alaris PCA pumps, give the patient more control over their pain and can thus facilitate healing and patient wellbeing.
Applications For PCA Pumps
In many cases, Alaris PCA pumps will be used in post-surgical applications to alleviate pain and discomfort after a procedure. But these pumps aren't limited to postoperative patients. They can also be used for patients who:
- Are dealing with trauma
- Are going through cancer treatment
- Have sustained burns
- Are experiencing a sickle cell crisis
- Have trouble taking oral medications
- Are not a candidate for frequent injections
Advantages Of Using Alaris PCA Pumps
One of the biggest advantages of smart PCA pumps is that they give the patient the ability to manage the pain they're experiencing and take a more active role in their recovery process. Consistency is key for reducing both physical and psychological pain; moreover, providing the patient with more control can help them avoid those highs and lows, curbing their pain before it becomes truly severe. Higher levels of pain can result in mental and emotional stress, and higher stress levels can inhibit the road to healing and/or even impact how well a medication works to reduce pain. By putting the patient in charge of when they receive medication, you allow them to take control of their experience at a time when many patients are prone to feeling helpless. And because of the way these infusion pumps are designed, there is no risk of overmedicating or putting the patient at risk in any way. As a bonus, Alaris PCA pumps will also reduce or even eliminate the need for injections; not only does the pump method distribute pain medication more quickly, but there's also no need for injection-related anxiety, which could impede healing in some patients.
Common PCA Pump Concerns
With any type of newer hospital equipment, including infusion pumps for sale, medical professionals have to do their due diligence and ensure that patient risk will be mitigated, rather than aggravated, through their use. Safety should be the primary concern with these inquiries. Because Alaris PCA pumps use smart pump technology, there is very little risk of overmedication with these infusion pumps. The pump's computer is programmed to administer only a certain amount of medication during a given period and the locked pump can be opened only by a physician or nurse. The newest kinds of PCA pumps are designed to prevent errors in medication delivery as well; their software program contains an entirely customized drug library that catches any dosage errors or drug interactions. If the pump malfunctions or has incorrect settings, an alarm will sound to alert staff members. And those who use PCA pumps are monitored closely to ensure there are no adverse changes in mental state and/or respiratory changes during this time.
When addiction is a concern, PCA pumps are generally considered to be low-risk because they're usually prescribed for short-term use. Because they're used for an average of only 10 days, addiction risk is very minimal. However, because opioids are used in pain management, they might not be appropriate in every case. PCA pumps are also not an appropriate choice for those who are critically ill, confused, lacking manual dexterity, or under the age of five.
In many cases, PCA pumps provide an important way for patients to take charge of their recovery process and may even allow them to heal more quickly as a result. To find out more about using these pumps at your facility, contact us today.