Which medication might be administered for pain relief in PACU?

Opioids such as morphine or fentanyl are commonly utilized in the Post-Anesthesia Care Unit (PACU) for pain relief due to their effectiveness in addressing moderate to severe pain that patients may experience following surgical procedures. These medications work by binding to specific receptors in the central nervous system, resulting in a reduction of pain perception and an overall calming effect. Their rapid onset and potent analgesic properties make them a first-line choice for acute pain management after surgery, especially when quick relief is needed in a controlled environment like the PACU.

While non-opioid medications like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can also play a role in pain management, they are generally used for mild to moderate pain or as adjuncts to opioids. Gabapentin, primarily used for neuropathic pain and as an anticonvulsant, may be employed in specific cases, but it is not the standard for immediate post-operative pain relief in the PACU. Overall, the choice of opioids aligns with the need for effective and rapid pain management in the acute post-operative setting.