Feature Article
PRN psychotropic medications: The need for nursing research
Kim Usher
School of Nursing, Midwifery and Nutrition, James Cook University, Cairns QLD
Colin Holmes
Adjunct Professor of Nursing, School of Nursing Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville QLD
David Lindsay
School of Nursing Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville QLD
Lauretta Luck
School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Western Sydney, Sydney NSW
PP: 248
Abstract
This paper highlights the inadequacy of existing research for the purposes of evidence-based prn (Latin, pro re nata or 'as needed') medication practice in psychiatric settings and notes the absence of relevant evidence-based clinical practice guidelines and policies, both nationally and internationally. The professional, ethical and legal importance of PRN medication practices is also discussed, and shown to add to the urgency of developing a research agenda which will serve as an adequate basis for good clinical practice. This paper summarises the relevant research and identifies problems that can arise for clinicians involved in the administration of prn medications in mental health settings. It concludes by highlighting key issues which urgently require empirical investigation.
Keywords
prn medication, psychotropics, nursing practice, evidence-based practice, clinical guidelines
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