What does the abbreviation PRN stand for?

• A. Immediately.
• B. As needed.
• C. Prior readiness needed.
• D. Per regular night.

Answer: (B)

PRN means “as needed.” In clinical practice, this indicates a medication or intervention should be given only when the patient has symptoms or when assessment shows a need arises, rather than on a strict, fixed schedule. This flexible dosing helps address variable symptoms like pain or nausea while avoiding unnecessary administration. For example, a nurse may administer PRN pain relief if the patient reports pain at a specified level, up to the safety limits set by the order. Remember that even with PRN dosing, there are still maximum dosages and frequencies to follow, and each administration should be documented and assessed for effectiveness and safety.

The other phrases don’t fit common medical shorthand. “Immediately” points to urgent, as-needed urgency in the moment (often labeled STAT), not a general as-needed approach. The ideas of “prior readiness needed” or “per regular night” aren’t standard terms for how PRN is used in care plans.