Final answer:
The pump setting for PCA should be documented when the PCA pump is set up, if there is a change in orders, at regular intervals, after any bolus dose, if the medication is changed, and if there is any interruption in therapy to ensure correct dosage and patient safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
The pump setting for PCA (Patient-Controlled Analgesia) should be documented when:
- Initially setting up the PCA pump
- Any time a change is made to the PCA orders or settings
- At regular intervals as specified by the hospital or facility's policy to ensure ongoing accuracy and patient safety
- After a bolus dose is administered, whether it's patient-initiated or clinician-initiated
- Whenever a syringe or medication bag is changed
- If there's any interruption to the therapy, such as pump malfunction or temporary discontinuation
Documenting these details is critical to ensure that the patient receives the correct dosage of medication and to prevent potential overdose or underdose from occurring. It is an essential part of managing a patient's pain effectively while using a PCA pump.