Patient controlled analgesia (PCA) is emerging as a very promising technique of administering pain medication (narcotics). By using an electronic delivery system complete with a timer and syringe pump, a patient can intravenously deliver on demand (through an intravenous line) a preset amount of pain medication. Presently, most post-operative pain medication is delivered intramuscularly and it is felt that there are some deficiencies with this method. In this study we will allow adult post cardiac surgery patients to control their own post-operative analgesia. Upon discharge from the ICU, the patient will be allowed to use the delivery system for a 72 hour period. Morphine will be the narcotic used. The designated incremental dose of morphine will be 1.0 mg., which can be administered every 8 minutes at a maximum. The patient will strive for analgesia, but minimal sedation. The incremental dose is subject to change depending upon the patient's response. The safety of PCA has been demonstrated in the treatment of post-operative pain. The specific machines used are FDA-approved.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
Clinical Center (CLC)
Type
Intramural Research (Z01)
Project #
1Z01CL008016-02
Application #
4692020
Study Section
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
Budget End
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
1985
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Clinical Center
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
State
Country
United States
Zip Code