Analgesia in recovery

analgesia pacu recovery Feb 02, 2026

Effective analgesia in the recovery period is not just about comfort — it is foundational to a safe and smooth transition from anaesthesia to rehabilitation. When we assess and manage pain thoughtfully from the PACU to the postoperative unit, we support physiological stability, early mobilisation, and readiness for subsequent care. Wilding and colleagues’ study highlights the importance of anticipating pain and responding promptly to individual needs.

Postoperative pain arises from surgical tissue injury, inflammatory responses and nociceptive signalling. If untreated, it can increase sympathetic activity, delay gastrointestinal function, impair breathing, and trigger stress responses that slow recovery. A structured approach combines vigilant assessment using validated tools with multimodal strategies to target diverse pain pathways.

Key Points
🟡 Pain assessment guides action. Accurate measurement in PACU and beyond helps tailor analgesia to individual needs.
🟡 Prompt relief matters. Higher pain scores at PACU discharge correlate with earlier need for rescue analgesia later.
🟡 Multimodal analgesia optimises outcomes. Using paracetamol, NSAIDs, regional techniques and minimised opioids reduces side effects and supports recovery.
🟡 Side effect anticipation is essential. Monitoring for nausea, sedation and respiratory depression informs safe dosing and recovery progression.

Practical Implications
Begin assessment early and reassess frequently. Create care plans that blend pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods. Document pain scores and correlate them with interventions to refine future care.

Clinical Insight
Analgesia in recovery is dynamic — it responds to both objective scores and the lived experience of the patient. When we partner with patients in assessing and responding to pain, we support not just comfort but a more resilient recovery landscape.

Build Knowledge ✅

Improve Safety ✅

References
Wilding, J.R., Manias, E. & McCoy, D.G.L. (2009). Pain assessment and management in patients after abdominal surgery from PACU to the postoperative unit. Journal of PeriAnesthesia Nursing, 24(4), 233-240.
(Additional context on multimodal postoperative analgesia.)

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