PRN
Formal Definition
Pro re nata (as needed) - medication orders that are taken only when needed, not on a fixed schedule.
How It's Used on the Ward
"Order morphine PRN" = give it when the patient asks for it.
Example
""Acetaminophen 650mg PO q6h PRN pain. If that's not sufficient, escalate to oxycodone 5mg PO q4h PRN severe pain.""
Clinical Context
PRN is distinct from scheduled meds. A patient with PRN pain meds who never requests them may not have pain - or may be underreporting.
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