Pro Re Nata Prescription and Perception Difference between Doctors and Nurses.

Area of Science:

• Medical Practice
• Nursing
• Hospital Administration

Background:

• Pro re nata (PRN) prescriptions are common in hospitals.
• This study examined the current state of PRN prescribing and potential administration errors arising from differing perceptions between doctors and nurses.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the actual conditions of PRN prescription practices.
• To determine if perception differences between doctors and nurses contribute to medication administration errors.

Main Methods:

• A survey was conducted from May to July 2012 involving 746 healthcare professionals (88 doctors, 658 nurses) across 5 hospitals.
• Participants reported on PRN prescription practices and the occurrence of administration errors due to perception differences.

Main Results:

• Surgical residents prescribed PRN medications more frequently than medical residents (4.6 vs. 1.7).
• Doctors expected nurses to notify them before PRN administration, but nurses often administered medication autonomously, leading to errors.
• Perception differences regarding PRN administration were linked to actual medication errors.

Conclusions:

• Standardized PRN prescription protocols are necessary to address perception gaps between doctors and nurses.
• Implementing standardized methods can mitigate medication administration errors and enhance patient safety.