ATI TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) Version 7ReadingMedium
A nurse is reviewing a patient's medication list and notes 'PRN' next to several medications. The nurse explains to the patient, 'PRN means you should take this medication only when necessary, such as when you experience pain or fever, and not on a regular schedule.' What is the primary purpose of including 'PRN' in medication orders?
- ATo indicate that the medication is for long-term, continuous use
- BTo denote a medication that requires a special administration technique
- CTo ensure the patient takes the medication at precise, scheduled intervals
- DTo allow for flexible dosing based on patient symptoms or needs
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. To allow for flexible dosing based on patient symptoms or needs
PRN stands for 'pro re nata,' which is Latin for 'as needed.' Its primary purpose is to give the patient or caregiver discretion to administer the medication only when specific symptoms or conditions arise, allowing for flexible dosing based on real-time needs rather than a fixed schedule.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. PRN medications are typically for acute symptoms, not continuous use.
- B. PRN refers to timing/necessity, not the administration technique.
- C. PRN directly contradicts taking medication at precise, scheduled intervals.
Medical Abbreviation: PRN
PRN (pro re nata) means 'as needed' and indicates that a medication should be administered only when a specific symptom or condition occurs.
- Latin for 'as needed'.
- Allows patient/caregiver discretion.
- Used for symptom management (e.g., pain, fever, nausea).
Memory trick: PRN: Patient's choice, when symptoms show.