Evaluation and selection of patient-controlled analgesia infusion pumps.

Seven PCA infusion pumps from seven manufacturers were evaluated. The condition for acceptable use of most of the units is that they not be used at low volumes that could result in overinfusion from the stored volume when an occlusion is cleared. All pumps met most accuracy, electrical safety, and performance criteria. Purchasing decisions should also take into consideration the cost of disposables, application, and medication security.