Which statement indicates the nurse's lack of understanding about the use of patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) therapy?

Question

a. Children as young as 3 years old can effectively and successfully use a PCA
pump.
b. Two registered nurses (RNs) are required to double-check the dosage and
programmed administration of opioids.
c. The child should be carefully monitored for signs and symptoms of
overmedication with opioids.
d. Naloxone (Narcan) should be readily available.

Answer 1

A
Feedback
A Children as young as 5 years old have effectively used PCA therapy. Further data
are needed to evaluate the use of PCA therapy in children younger than 5 years
of age.
B Two RNs are needed to check the amount of opioid being administered. Once
the opioid infusion is hung and programmed, a second RN must double-check
the process.
C Children receiving PCA therapy should be monitored closely to ensure effective
pain control and for signs or symptoms of overmedication. Initially, vital signs
should be monitored every 15 to 30 minutes and then every 2 to 4 hours.
Respiratory rate should be assessed every hour.
D Narcan should be readily available to reverse opioid overmedication exhibited by
respiratory distress.