What does "prn" stand for in medication administration?

The term "prn" is derived from the Latin phrase "pro re nata," which translates to "as needed" in English. This designation is commonly used in medication administration to indicate that a medication should be given only when required, rather than on a fixed schedule. For example, a patient might be prescribed a pain reliever prn, meaning they can take it when they experience pain, but they do not need to take it if they are not in discomfort.

This flexibility in dosing can be crucial for managing conditions that may fluctuate in severity, allowing for patient-centered care that responds to individual symptoms and needs.