National Center for Competency Testing (NCCT) Medical Assistant Practice Test

What does the abbreviation PRN signify?

1. Regularly scheduled

2. As needed

3. Until further notice

4. At bedtime

The correct answer is: As needed

The abbreviation PRN stands for "pro re nata," a Latin phrase that translates to "as needed." In a medical context, this term is commonly used to indicate that a medication or treatment should be administered based on the patient's needs rather than on a regular schedule. For instance, a physician might prescribe pain medication to be taken PRN, meaning the patient can take it only when they experience pain, rather than at set intervals. This approach allows for more tailored and responsive patient care, recognizing that individual needs can vary over time. Understanding this term is crucial for medical assistants when interpreting prescriptions and communicating with patients about their treatment plans.