What is a PCA pump?

• A. Portable infusion pump that is prefilled with prescribed opioid analgesic, patient pushes button
• B. A device that delivers analgesics on a fixed schedule by nurse
• C. An implantable pump for chronic pain
• D. A device that measures pain intensity only

Answer: (A)

A PCA pump is a portable infusion device that holds an opioid analgesic prescribed for the patient and is set up so the patient can self-administer a dose by pressing a button. The system is programmed with safety limits, often including a basal rate (in some setups) plus a patient-activated bolus dose and a lockout interval to prevent overdose. This arrangement gives the patient control over timing of relief and helps maintain steady pain control after procedures or during recovery, while still being overseen by clinicians.

It is not a fixed-schedule regimen delivered by a nurse, nor is it an implanted device used for chronic pain, and it is not simply a tool that measures pain intensity.