PRN is an acronym for the Latin term "pro re nata," which means "as the situation demands" or "as needed". The term is used in different contexts, including medicine and employment. Here are some of the meanings of PRN:
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Medicine: In medical terminology, PRN refers to the administration of prescribed medication whose timing is left to the patient, nurse, or caregiver, as opposed to medication that is taken according to a fixed schedule. It does not imply that the patient may take as much of the medicine as desired, but rather that the medicine may be taken in the prescribed dosage if needed.
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Nursing: In nursing, PRN refers to a type of employment where nurses work on-call instead of as full-time employees. PRN nurses may work a single shift or may work a variety of shifts, filling in for nurses on vacation or in times of high need. PRN work gives nurses the flexibility to choose assignments and shifts, make extra money, and gain experience in multiple specialties. However, PRN nurses usually do not have the benefit of medical insurance, vacation time, or guarantee of work.
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Employment: In employment, PRN refers to a type of job position where employees work when called, to fill in for an absent employee or to cover a special situation. PRN work is available in any medical field and in many medical specialties. PRN employees are paid by the hour, often at a higher rate than a full-time employee on a regular work schedule. However, PRN workers usually do not have the benefit of medical insurance, vacation time, or guarantee of work.
In summary, PRN is a Latin term that means "as needed" or "as the situation demands." It is used in different contexts, including medicine and employment, to refer to the administration of medication or a type of job position where employees work on-call.
