What does a PRN order specify?

A PRN order is a medical instruction that stands for "pro re nata," which is Latin for "as needed." This means that the medication should be administered only when a patient requires it, rather than on a fixed schedule or in anticipation of a need. For example, a patient may be prescribed a pain reliever on a PRN basis to be taken when they are experiencing pain, rather than at specific times throughout the day.

This flexibility allows for more individualized patient care, as it accommodates the varying needs of a patient throughout their treatment. It ensures that medications are only given when necessary, helping to avoid unnecessary medication usage and potential side effects.

The other options describe more rigid ways of administering medication, which do not align with the concept of PRN. The primary focus of a PRN order is its conditional nature, centered on the patient's immediate needs rather than a predetermined schedule.