What does "PRN" stand for in medication administration?

The abbreviation "PRN" stands for "Pro re nata," which translates from Latin to "as needed." This term is commonly used in medication administration to denote that a medication should be given only when it is necessary, rather than on a scheduled basis. For example, a patient may be prescribed pain medication to be taken PRN, meaning they should take it only when they experience discomfort rather than at fixed intervals.

This terminology is crucial for allowing flexibility in medication management, ensuring that patients receive care tailored to their current condition. Understanding this concept helps medication technicians and other healthcare providers make informed decisions about administering medications based on a patient’s specific needs at the moment.

The other options present definitions that are not standard or recognized abbreviations in the context of medication administration, which is why they do not apply in this scenario.