Narcotic infusions--a changing scene

Controlling patients' pain is no longer a luxury in health care. Studies have shown that pain can cause physical harm. A better understanding of the pain pathway has enabled health care professionals to control pain more effectively. Development of pain control techniques that include patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) and intraspinal infusions of narcotics and local anesthetic agents has enhanced the level of pain control. Fewer side effects and decreased narcotic use are among the advantages demonstrated with PCA and intraspinal infusions. Side effects can be minimized and complications reduced when nursing can intervene during narcotic infusions. The role of the intravenous nurse is expanding into the area of pain management as educator and clinical practitioner.