The nurse prepares patient-controlled analgesia (PCA)for a postoperative patient in the postanesthesia recovery unit (PACU).To rule out contraindications to therapy,which should the nurse assess before the patient receives PCA?(Select all that apply.)

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The nurse assesses the patient's cognitive level to verify suitability of PCA for pain management.If the patient cannot understand instructions,PCA will have little value to the patient in managing pain.The nurse evaluates communication to ensure patient ability to relate pain levels effectively; if the patient does not speak English or is cognitively impaired,the nurse establishes a method of nonverbal communication to determine pain level and effectiveness of therapy.The nurse ensures the patient's physical ability to depress the PCA button.He or she checks patient allergies to medication before initiating PCA to prevent hypersensitivity reactions.One IV infusion is sufficient for PCA if the infusion is continuous or only infuses the PCA.If PCA is infused through the same tubing as intermittent infusions,the nurse risks bolus administration of the opioid and possibly the local anesthetic agent; this increases the risk of respiratory depression.Constipation does not contraindicate the use of PCA.

The Nurse Prepares Patient-Controlled Analgesia (PCA)for a Postoperative Patient in the Postanesthesia