Which is a correct PCA-related PT consideration?

Which is a correct PCA-related PT consideration?

• A. PT may press the analgesia button
• B. Non-patient should monitor vitals
• C. Only patient presses the analgesia button
• D. Discontinue therapy if pain arises

Answer: (C)

In PCA use during physical therapy, the patient should be the one to press the analgesia button. This preserves dosing control because the PCA device delivers a preset dose on demand and has a lockout interval to prevent overdose. When the patient alone triggers the dose, you maintain the intended safety and allow the analgesia to be matched to their own pain level, which helps them participate in therapy more effectively and safely. During a session, the therapist can coordinate with nursing to time activities around when analgesia takes effect and to monitor for sedation, dizziness, or respiratory issues. The other options blur responsibility or safety: having the therapist press the button removes patient control and increases risk of over- or under-medication; vitals are typically monitored by nursing, though the therapist can observe and report concerns; and discontinuing therapy due to pain isn’t appropriate—pain management should be adjusted in consultation with the medical team to keep therapy feasible.

In PCA use during physical therapy, the patient should be the one to press the analgesia button. This preserves dosing control because the PCA device delivers a preset dose on demand and has a lockout interval to prevent overdose. When the patient alone triggers the dose, you maintain the intended safety and allow the analgesia to be matched to their own pain level, which helps them participate in therapy more effectively and safely.

During a session, the therapist can coordinate with nursing to time activities around when analgesia takes effect and to monitor for sedation, dizziness, or respiratory issues. The other options blur responsibility or safety: having the therapist press the button removes patient control and increases risk of over- or under-medication; vitals are typically monitored by nursing, though the therapist can observe and report concerns; and discontinuing therapy due to pain isn’t appropriate—pain management should be adjusted in consultation with the medical team to keep therapy feasible.