Which benefit does patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) provide for clients after surgery?

The benefit of patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) that stands out is the ability for clients to self-administer pain relief. This approach empowers patients by allowing them to manage their own pain levels according to their individual needs and comfort levels. With PCA, patients can access medication within set limits, which means they can take doses when they feel discomfort without having to wait for a nurse to deliver pain relief. This not only enhances patient autonomy but also can lead to greater satisfaction with pain management, as patients can respond to their pain signals in real-time.

This self-administration aspect is crucial because waiting for a nurse can lead to delays in pain relief, potentially causing unnecessary discomfort. While PCA aims to reduce pain intensity and improve overall comfort, it does not promise to eliminate pain completely or remove the necessity for medication altogether, as is mentioned in the other options. Instead, it is designed to provide effective control over pain while allowing the patient to actively participate in their recovery process.