PRN medication
Also written as: PRN — pro re nata (as needed)
Psychiatric medication administered as needed based on specific clinical indications rather than scheduled dosing.
Full Definition
PRN (pro re nata) medications are prescribed to be given when specific symptoms or behaviors occur, such as agitation, anxiety, or insomnia. In emergency psychiatry, PRN protocols allow nursing staff to administer medications based on predefined criteria without obtaining new physician orders each time. Common PRN psychiatric medications include anxiolytics for agitation and sedatives for severe behavioral disturbances. Proper PRN orders specify the indication, maximum dosing frequency, and parameters for administration. Documentation must include the indication for each PRN dose given.
Usage
Usage note: Always document specific indication and assessment findings when PRN medication is given.
In Context
- "PRN medication was administered for severe agitation per protocol parameters." — nursing note
- "The PRN order specifies maximum doses and required assessment before administration." — medication protocol