In medication administration, what does 'PRN' stand for?

'PRN' is a Latin abbreviation that stands for "pro re nata," which translates to "as needed" in English. This term is commonly used in medical settings to indicate that a medication should be administered only when required, rather than on a fixed schedule.

For instance, a patient may be prescribed a pain reliever to be taken PRN, meaning they should take it only when they experience pain rather than at set times throughout the day. This allows for more flexibility in medication administration, tailored to the patient's immediate needs rather than strictly adhering to a timetable.

Understanding this terminology is crucial in medication administration to ensure that patients use their medications effectively and safely, improving patient care and outcomes.