Drugs

Question 1

PCA

4 atributes

Answer 1

1) Self administered analgesic
2) Anesthetic
3) Continuous pain control
4) Either opioids or epidural local anesthetic

Question 2

loading dose

Answer 2

initial, single dose used to bring analgesic level to the therapeutic window

Question 3

demand dose

Answer 3

the amount of drug delivered when the patient activates the delivery mechanism

Question 4

lockout interval

Answer 4

the set time between each demand dose; prevents patients from self-administering too much medication

Question 5

1 and 4 hr limits

Answer 5

used to set how much drug can be delivered in a 1 or 4 hour time period. However, the demand dose and lockout interval already determine this factor

Question 6

background infusion rate

Answer 6

provides continuous infusion of a drug in tandem with the demand dose. Helps to maintain an optimal level of analgesia

Question 7

successful v. total demand

Answer 7

Every time patients attempt to activate their PAC, the system records the attempt. Successful attempts occur when the pt receives the drug. Pts may also attempt during the lockout period. If many unsuccessful demands are made, the demand dose may be adjusted to better control the patient’s pain.

Question 8

benfits of PCA

Answer 8

1) May enable earlier participation in post-op rehab
2) Patients may be more alert and experience fewer side effects
3) Patient may be more mobile

Question 9

disadvantages of PCA

Answer 9

1) Medication may make patient drowsy
2) Watch for shows signs of respiratory depression, excessive sedation
3) Be aware of potential pump malfunction/problems
4) Pump may not deliver adequate pain control