What does the abbreviation 'PRN' stand for in a healthcare context?

The abbreviation 'PRN' stands for "as needed," which is a common term used in healthcare settings. It signifies that a medication or intervention should be administered only when necessary, rather than on a fixed schedule. This approach allows for greater flexibility in patient care, ensuring that individuals receive treatment tailored to their specific conditions or symptoms at the appropriate time. For instance, a healthcare provider might prescribe pain medication to be taken PRN, meaning the patient should take it only when they feel pain, rather than at regular intervals. This concept is crucial in providing patient-centered care, allowing for more responsive and effective management of conditions based on real-time patient needs.