What does PRN mean in terms of medication administration?

PRN stands for "Pro Re Nata," a Latin phrase meaning "as needed." In the context of medication administration, it indicates that a medication should be given only when it is necessary or as required by the patient's condition rather than on a fixed schedule. This allows for more personalized patient care, as the healthcare provider can administer the medication based on the individual's symptoms or needs at the moment, ensuring they receive treatment that is appropriate for their current state.

The other options do not accurately reflect the meaning of PRN in medical terminology. For example, "Prescription required now" and "Prior required notification" suggest a sense of urgency or a procedural step that does not align with the intended usage of medications on an as-needed basis. Similarly, "Periodic reinforcement needed" implies a repetitive or scheduled approach to medication administration, which contradicts the flexibility that PRN provides. Thus, the correct understanding of PRN is fundamental to effective medication management in healthcare settings.