Pain Control

After surgery, most patients receive Patient Controlled Analgesia (PCA) to control pain. With PCA, a syringe with ordered medicine is loaded into an electric pump that hangs near your bed. The pump limits the dose you receive. The pain medicine is given through a tube that is connected to your intravenous (IV) line. There is a control button on a cable attached to the pump. This cable lets you give your own pain medicine when you push the button. Your nurse will show you how to use this device.

PCA is very safe. Your doctor orders the dose of medicine you can receive as well as how often you can receive it. You should push the button when the pain becomes uncomfortable. You will receive the pain medication very quickly. Thus, you do not have to wait for the nurse to give it you. It is very important that no one other than you presses the button.

When you are able to take fluids by mouth, the PCA is stopped. Liquid pain medicine will be given instead.

Coughing, deep breathing exercises and jaw relaxation may also be helpful for pain control. Your nurse can help you with these exercises.