Our site is facing an impending shortage of PCA (Patient-Controlled Analgesia) vials and will not be able to safely transition to Alaris PCA pumps until 2026 due to supply and implementation constraints.

In the short term, we are actively exploring alternative options to manage pain safely and effectively while minimizing disruptions to patient care. Specifically, we are:

Does anyone have recommendations, protocols, or successful strategies they've used during PCA vial shortages? We are especially interested in:

-- Alternative PCA delivery systems (e.g., elastomeric pumps, syringe pumps with PCA capability)
-- Standardized protocols for transitioning patients from PCA to scheduled or PRN IV/PO pain regimens
-- Risk mitigation strategies to maintain safe pain management

Any guidance, tools, or shared experience would be greatly appreciated.