Pro re nata
Pro re nata is a Latin phrase meaning "in the circumstances" or "as the circumstance arises".[1] It is commonly used in medicine to mean "as needed" or "as the situation arises." It is generally abbreviated to PRN in reference to dosage of prescribed medication that is not scheduled; instead administration is left to the nurse/caregiver or the patient's prerogative.[2] PRN administration of medication is not meant to imply and should never allow for exceeding a prescribed daily regimen.
Common PRN medications
Most often PRN medications are analgesics such as paracetamol, also known as acetaminophen, hydrocodone (Vicodin), laxatives such as docusate, antianxiety medicines such as lorazepam (Ativan), hypnotics such as eszopiclone(Lunesta) and antiemetics such as ondansetron or dimenhydrinate (Gravol).[citation needed]
It should be noted that none of the medications above are considered maintenance. PRN is often added to the prescribed directions for medication used to treat symptoms (as above: pain/fever, constipation, insomnia, anxiety, nausea/vomiting), but generally never as a maintenance drug.
PRN is often used for blood tests. A physician will write the order for blood work with PRN added to it. The patient may then use that order when needed.
The initials PRN also refer to casual employment, or "as needed". The usage of the initials started in the medical profession and were soon used in other industries.
Notes
- ↑ Oxford Latin Dictionary s.v. nascor ~ī nātus (p. 1156)
- ↑ Pro re nata does not imply that the patient may take the medicine whenever the patient desires, but rather that the medicine may be taken in the prescribed dosage if needed.
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