A system connected to an IV which allows the patient to administer pain medication that is within the parameters prescribed by the physician. By pushing a button, medication can be released into the bloodstream for immediate pain relief.
Letter: P
Pars Interarticularis
The part of a vertebra between the lamina and pedicle. Stress fractures can occur in this location creating a “pars facture” (spondylolysis). If the bones separate, it can lead to a spondylolisthesis.
Pain Medication
A drug that relieves pain. Narcotic analgesics act on the central nervous system and may alter a patient’s pain perception. Non-narcotic analgesics, used for mild to moderate pain, do not alter a patient’s pain perception (e.g., aspirin, Tylenol).
PACU (Post Anesthesia Care Unit)
An area in a surgery center where patients recover from general, regional, and/or local anesthesia.