Medication Procedures in a Nursing Home: Abuse of PRN Orders

Abstract
A study was made of the drugs prescribed for 98 patients in a proprietary nursing home. PRN [pro re nata or as needed] orders were sometimes inappropriate and indiscriminately followed, and the multiplicity of drugs often prescribed could lead to drug incompatibilities and to additional illness of the patient. Concern was expressed about the medication review process currently in vogue in nursing homes.