pro re nata

Definition

Adverb 1. According to need; as needed; as the situation requires. This Latin phrase, often abbreviated as PRN, is used to indicate that something should be done or taken only when necessary, not on a fixed schedule. It is most commonly used in medical contexts, particularly in prescriptions and nursing instructions.

Usage and Examples

Medical Context (Prescription): The doctor wrote the prescription for pain medication with the instruction "take 1 tablet pro re nata for breakthrough pain." This means the patient should take a tablet only when they experience pain, not at regular intervals.
Medical Context (Nursing): The patient's chart indicated the nurse could administer the anti-nausea medication pro re nata. This authorizes the nurse to give the medication if and when the patient feels nauseous.
General/Formal Context: While less common, it can be used in formal or legal writing. For example: "The committee is authorized to meet pro re nata to address urgent matters as they arise."

Advanced Usage

Abbreviation (PRN): The abbreviation is far more common in everyday usage than the full Latin phrase, especially in healthcare settings. It functions identically to the full phrase.
- Example: The order was for morphine, 2mg IV, PRN for severe pain.
As a Modifier: The term can be used adjectivally to describe a role or position that is filled only when required.
- Example: She works as a PRN nurse at the hospital, covering shifts when the regular staff is unavailable.

Variants and Related Words

PRN (Adverb/Adjective): The standard abbreviation for .
As needed (Adverbial Phrase): The direct English equivalent, suitable for all contexts.
As required (Adverbial Phrase): A synonym with a slightly more formal or mandatory tone.
Ad libitum (Adverb): Another Latin phrase meaning "at one's pleasure" or "as desired," often used in musical directions. While similar, implies more discretion or freedom of choice than the need-based .

Synonyms

As needed
As required
As necessary
When needed
On demand

Antonyms

Scheduled
Regularly
Routinely
Fixed
Standing order

Related Phrases/Idioms

PRN basis: A phrase used to describe employment or action taken only when needed.
- Example: He is employed on a PRN basis, working only during peak seasons.

Adverb

according to need (physicians use PRN in writing prescriptions)
- add water as needed

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