A low-cost, disposable patient-controlled analgesia device was tested using a computer-controlled, automated testing station designed to simulate clinical use. Five devices were tested and delivered a mean bolus dose size of 95% of nominal, although one device achieved only 85% of nominal. Delivery was lowest immediately following an eight-hour interval during which no demands were made. Further development and evaluation of this interesting device is warranted.
WermelingD.P., FosterT.S., RappR.P., KenadyD.E.Evaluation of a disposable, non-electronic, patient-controlled-analgesia device for postoperative pain.Clin Pharm1987; 6: 307–14.
2.
GroverE.R., HeathM.L.Patient-controlled analgesia: a serious incident.Anaesthesia1992; 47: 402–4.
3.
RappR.P., BivinsB.A., LittrellR.A., FosterT.S.Patient-controlled analgesia: a review of effectiveness of therapy and an evaluation of currently available devices.Drug Intell Clin Pharm1989; 23: 899–904.
4.
HawkinsD.J., RobertsD.R.D., IlsleyA.H., PlummerJ.L., OwenH.An automated system for testing the accuracy of patient-controlled analgesia devices.Anaesthesia1992; 47: 693–6.
5.
NottcutW.G., KnowlesP., KaldasR.Overdose of opioid from patient-controlled analgesia pumps.Br J Anaesth1992; 69: 95–7.
6.
RowbothamD.J., WyldR., NimmoW.S.A disposable device for patient-controlled analgesia with fentanyl.Anaesthesia1989; 44: 922–4.
