great post! unfortunately the self controlled morphine did pretty much nothing for me and i had self administered drips every 10 minutes. the only way i was able to get some semi relief from pain via the self administering was when i would hit it every single 10 minutes for at least 4 times in a row. but for the most part, i worked through my pain by walking within hours after surgery, talking, sleeping and focusing on talking to my husband.
i do wish i had a better experience with the self controlled meds...but my nurse Lenor was such a sweetie and we made jokes about it all that night.
however i do agree--pain management is CRUCIAL for a good recovery and this post is awesome.