Example of PCA regimens for adults

There is wide inter-institution variability in PCA pump settings. This table shows an example of one protocol.

For patients who are chronically taking high doses of opioids (eg, >50 morphine milligram equivalents per day) or medication for opioid use disorder (ie, methadone or buprenorphine), it is reasonable to start with demand doses at the high end of the ranges shown in this table, and lockout intervals at the low end of the ranges shown, while continuing their baseline opioid. It is important to monitor such patients closely for pain control and opioid related side effects and adjust the PCA settings accordingly.