What does the abbreviation PRN stand for in a medical context?

In a medical context, the abbreviation PRN stands for "as needed." This term is commonly used in prescriptions and healthcare documentation to indicate that a medication or treatment should be administered only when a specific requirement arises, rather than on a scheduled or regular basis. For example, a patient may be prescribed pain medication to take PRN, meaning they should take it only when they experience pain rather than at set intervals. This allows for more personalized care and helps ensure that treatment is responsive to the patient's immediate needs.

Understanding that PRN signals flexibility in treatment can be crucial for both patients and healthcare providers, enabling an approach that prioritizes the patient's comfort and individual circumstances. Other choices, such as "prior notice," "per required need," and "patient required notes," do not accurately reflect the meaning of PRN in medical terminology.