PATIENT CONTROLLED ANALGESIA (PCA) FOR HOSPICE CARE: BENEFITS AND RISKS - A SYSTEMATIC LITERATURE REVIEW

Background: Patient controlled analgesia (PCA) is a method that allows patients to self-administer pain relief through an electronic pump, providing greater control over their pain management. PCA in hospice care is not just about pain relief, its about preserving autonomy, dignity, and comfort in the final stage of life. It ensures patients can respond to their own pain in real time, which aligns with the core philosophy of hospice which is patient-centered and compassionate care.

Methods:A comprehensive literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed journal articles, clinical studies, and public health reports. The review focused on the risks and benefits for hospice care setting. The following data was extracted from eligible articles: source, author, study purpose, location (country and care setting), sample, design and methodology, participant characteristics, and relevant results.

Results:Findings include information on the PCA devices, rationale for administration, efficacy, safety, adverse events.We need to understand the benefits and risks of patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) in hospice care because it directly impacts patient comfort, autonomy, and safety at tpatient-control ledowing both sides will benefit clinicians, patients, and families to make informed decisions about whether PCA is the right tool for managing pain in hospice care settings. Overall, PCA was found to be safe and effective, sometimes even preferable to other opioid administration regimens.