How to Effectively Manage PRN Medications in Long-Term Care

Nearly 75% of nursing home residents are prescribed at least one PRN medication. While not administered on a routine, regular basis, these “pro re nata” drugs have an increased potential for costly errors. For a long-term care pharmacy, medication mismanagement could spell problems during an audit or for the well-being of residents.

Best Practices for PRN Medications

Like any treatment, an as-needed medication requires careful assessment of the patient's condition, evaluation of the necessity for the medication, and monitoring of the patient's response to ensure therapeutic effects.

Additionally, the 7 rights of medication administration must be followed:

• Right Patient: Verify the patient's identity with more than one identifier.

• Right Medication: Ensure that the medication being administered matches the physician’s order.

• Right Dose: Check the dosage for accuracy and appropriateness.

• Right Route: Confirm that the medication is being given via the correct route (oral, IV, etc.).

• Right Time: Administer the medication at the correct time, considering any specific timing requirements.

• Right Documentation: Record the medication administration immediately after giving it, noting the time, dose, and any relevant observations.

• Right Reason: Verify there’s a valid reason for administering the medication, making sure it aligns with the patient’s current condition and treatment plan.

Ambiguities in the management of PRN medications have the potential to result in harm to patients. 

Issues such as unclear indications for use, inconsistent administration methods, and incomplete documentation can adversely affect patient care outcomes and may result in penalties and fines for the facility.

Long-term Care Pharmacy and PRN Medication Management

Mistakes in recording PRN medication details, like the reason for use, dosage, administration route, and physician's instructions, can lead to miscommunication, dosing errors, and jeopardized patient safety.

Prime Care's expertise in policy and procedure development establishes clear guidelines for an LTC pharmacy that cater to the needs of residents. As a proactive measure, proper protocols promote the delivery of safe and effective pharmaceutical services.

Additionally, Prime Care offers medication room inspections and medication pass observations. These services ensure proper storage and handling of medications, an imperative step in minimizing medication errors, and identify any inconsistencies in medication administration. 

Prime Care’s commitment to improving medication management practices can significantly improve patient outcomes and contribute to a safer environment for residents. 

Together, LTCs can create a seamless and patient-centered approach to PRN medication use, ensuring the highest standards of care and well-being for residents in long-term care facilities.

Partner with Prime Care to elevate your standards of care and ensure the well-being of your residents while safeguarding your facilities from costly penalties.