What does PRN indicate in a medical setting?

The abbreviation PRN stands for "pro re nata," which is Latin for "as needed." In a medical setting, this term is commonly used to indicate that a medication or treatment should be administered based on the patient's specific needs, rather than on a fixed schedule. For instance, a patient may be prescribed pain medication to be taken PRN, meaning they should take it only when they experience pain rather than at regular intervals. This allows for more personalized care, as it acknowledges varying patient conditions and the necessity of flexibility in treatment approaches. Understanding this terminology is essential for CNAs and other healthcare professionals to provide appropriate care and respond to the immediate needs of patients effectively.