Position Statement: Range Orders in the Management of Pain

Area of Science:

• Nursing Practice
• Pharmacology
• Pain Management

Background:

• Pro re nata (PRN) range orders are frequently utilized in pain management to allow for flexible analgesic dosing.
• Patient-specific factors necessitate clinical assessment for safe medication administration.
• Misconceptions exist regarding The Joint Commission's standards on PRN range orders, leading to concerns about their safety and implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To clarify the American Society for Pain Management Nursing's (ASPMN) position on the safe and appropriate use of PRN range orders for analgesics.
• To address persistent myths surrounding The Joint Commission's standards on range orders.
• To emphasize the role of PRN range orders in facilitating optimal pain management within nursing practice.

Main Methods:

• This is a position statement from the American Society for Pain Management Nursing (ASPMN).
• The statement focuses on the application of PRN range orders specifically for analgesic medications.
• It addresses the scope of nursing practice in relation to medication administration.

Main Results:

• ASPMN supports the safe medication practices associated with PRN range orders for analgesics.
• When used appropriately and consistently, PRN range orders can be safe and effective.
• These orders allow nurses to tailor analgesic doses to individual patient needs.

Conclusions:

• PRN range orders, when implemented correctly, are a valuable tool for nurses in managing patient pain.
• Dispelling myths about range orders is crucial for their appropriate utilization.
• Safe administration and optimal pain relief can be achieved through the judicious use of PRN range orders.