Question

What are high risk times for errors in patient controlled analgesia (PCA) therapy?

Answer 1

Errors in Patient Controlled Analgesia (PCA) therapy can occur during incorrect programming of the PCA pump, failure to monitor the patient for signs of respiratory depression, and administering additional opioids outside of the prescribed regimen.

Step-by-step explanation:

The high risk times for errors in Patient Controlled Analgesia (PCA) therapy include:

• Incorrect programming of the PCA pump
• Failure to monitor the patient closely for signs of respiratory depression
• Administering additional opioids outside of the prescribed PCA regimen

These errors can result in overdosing or underdosing of patients, leading to serious complications or inadequate pain control.