Florida Nursing Assistant Competency Pracrice Exam

When a physician orders Tylenol to be given "PRN," what does this imply?

1. To be given at scheduled times

2. To be given as needed for pain

3. To be given only at bedtime

4. To be given strictly for fever

The correct answer is: To be given as needed for pain

When a physician orders a medication like Tylenol to be given "PRN," it indicates that the medication should be administered as needed for a specific condition, in this case, pain. The term "PRN" is derived from the Latin phrase "pro re nata," which translates to "as the situation arises" or "as needed." This means that the nurse should assess the patient's condition and determine when the medication is necessary based on their symptoms or level of discomfort. In a practical context, this approach allows for flexibility in managing a patient's pain. If a patient expresses discomfort or pain, the nurse can give Tylenol to alleviate that pain rather than sticking to a strict schedule. It emphasizes the importance of individualized care in nursing practice, allowing healthcare providers to respond to the unique needs of each patient.