What does the abbreviation "PRN" mean in medication administration?

The abbreviation "PRN" stands for "as needed" in medication administration. This term is used to indicate that medication should be given only when it is required, rather than on a fixed schedule. For instance, a patient may receive a pain reliever PRN, meaning that they can take it whenever they feel discomfort, rather than at set intervals. This approach allows for more personalized care, ensuring that patients receive medication only when they truly need it, avoiding unnecessary dosing and potential side effects.

The other options focus on specific timing related to medication schedules, which do not align with the meaning of PRN. For example, "before meals" pertains to medication that is to be taken at set times relative to meal consumption, usually to optimize absorption or effectiveness. "Once a day" refers to a regimen where the medication is taken at one specific time each day, and "every hour" indicates a frequent dosing schedule. None of these specify an on-demand, as-needed approach, which is the essence of the PRN abbreviation.