Medication
PRN medication
pro re nata (Latin for "as the situation arises")
Also known as: as-required medication, when-required medication
Medicine given only when needed rather than on a fixed schedule, for example pain relief, supported by a written protocol describing when and how much to give.
PRN (pro re nata) medicines are prescribed to be taken "as required" rather than at set times. Common examples are analgesia for pain and medicines for occasional agitation or breathlessness.
Because a PRN medicine relies on staff judgement, good practice is to hold a PRN protocol for each one: what it is for, the signs that indicate it is needed, the dose and maximum in a period, and how to record the effect after it is given.
Why it matters for care homes
PRN administration is a common weak point in medicines audits, especially where the reason for giving a dose and the effect afterwards are not recorded. Clear protocols and records evidence that as-required medicines are used appropriately.
Related guides
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