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Pain Pump Pain Pump
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The pump will remember the number of attempts and compare it to the
number of times you were given breakthrough pain medicine. This will
allow your health care team to determine how much to change your pain
management at your next visit. The pump settings and the medicine can be
changed to provide better pain relief. If your pain is getting worse while on
the pump, please contact your health care team right away. You do not need
to wait until the next visit.
Only you push the button!
The pump is your pump. Only you and the health care team should push
the button. Family members and friends should never push the button.
If someone other than you or the health care team pushes the button,
you may become too sleepy and stop breathing.
You should push the button when you are having breakthrough pain or when
you are about to start or anticipate a painful activity. If you have any trouble
pushing the button on the pump, you can ask the team about getting an
extension cord.
What if I accidentally change the pump settings?
The pump’s computer is programmed by the nurse and cannot be changed
until the correct pass code is entered.
How do I shower or dress myself with the pain pump?
You must never disconnect the pump from the tubing, even for a little bit.
It is important to keep germs out of the tubing. You can protect your needle
area with plastic wrap but keep the pump away from water to shower. Do not
get the pump wet. Keep the area as dry as you can. You may need to avoid
bathing or soaking in water if your needle is in your abdomen.
It may be tricky at first to dress yourself when using a pump. You may need
to choose looser clothing or ask for help.
Can I drive with a CADD pump?
It is best to avoid driving or operating dangerous equipment when you
are using a pain pump until you know how the medicine will affect you.
This applies when you are starting a pump, have a medicine change or
the amount of medicine changes. If you choose to drive, be aware of
municipal laws. You may be charged with driving under the influence
if you have had pain medicine. If you are unsure, please talk with the
health care team.
Can I walk with a CADD pump?
Yes. The CADD pump is small enough to carry
in a bag or pouch so that you can remain active.
How often does a nurse check the pump?
If you are in the hospital, a nurse will check the
pump every 4 hours. If you are at home, the visiting
nurse will check the pump every day. The cassette
contains pain medicine and will need to be replaced
every few days, depending on your usage.
Common side effects
Drowsiness
At first, it is normal to be a little drowsy when using a pain pump or when
the amount has changed. This is usually temporary and will go away over
time as your body adjusts to the medicine. If you are falling asleep during
conversations or when eating a meal, call the doctor who prescribed
the pump. You may need to have the pump settings or medicine adjusted.
Nausea
You may feel sick to your stomach or have nausea when the pump first
starts, or whenever you have the amount dose adjusted. You may need to
take medicine to help your nausea, including over the counter medicine or
ones that your doctor prescribed. This feeling usually goes away within a
week or two. If the nausea continues, call the team who prescribed the
pain pump.
Constipation
All opioids cause constipation but it can be prevented by taking regular
laxatives. Do not wait until you are constipated before you take a laxative.
Senokot, Lactulose or Dulcolax are ones that your doctor may prescribe
or you can buy them over the counter without a prescription. You will need
to keep track of your bowel movements. If your bowels have not moved in
3 to 4 days, call your health care team.