Patient-controlled analgesia in Thai patients.

ABSTRACT

We conclude that the intravenous PCA method is acceptable, easy to use, does not depend on the patients' level of education, and is safe for Thai patients. The average pain scores at 48 hours postoperation of the PCA group was significantly lower than for the conventional and the I.M. groups. Satisfaction was quite difficult to assess. Thai culture might influence how much pain is accepted and the patients had not experienced other techniques, so they could not make a comparison. The amount of morphine used by the PCA group was intermediate between that used by the other two groups.