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Intermediate Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

PRN medication

Pronunciation: P-R-N

Also written as: PRN — pro re nata

Medications ordered to be given as needed based on specific clinical criteria or patient symptoms.

Full Definition

Pro re nata (PRN) medications are prescribed to be administered only when specific conditions are met, such as breakthrough symptoms, agitation, or pain levels exceeding predetermined thresholds. In psychiatric settings, common PRN orders include anxiolytics for severe anxiety or antipsychotics for agitation. Each administration requires documentation of the indication, patient response, and any adverse effects. Clear parameters must be established for when the medication should and should not be given.

Usage

Usage note: Write as 'PRN' in clinical documentation; spell out 'pro re nata' only in formal educational contexts.

In Context

  • "The patient received PRN lorazepam for severe anxiety as documented in the nursing notes." — medication administration record
  • "PRN medication orders must include specific parameters for administration and maximum dosing limits." — pharmacy policy

Also known as

as needed medication conditional medication

Contrasted with

scheduled medication standing order

Don't confuse with

STAT medication routine medication
privilege level ← Back to glossary PRN protocol

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