Strategies to Support Nursing Practice When Implementing and Using Range Orders

The purpose of this Special Feature Article is to present factual information and guidance regarding the implementation and utilization of PRN range orders when administering analgesic medications to optimize patient safety.

The American Society for Pain Management Nursing supports safe medication practices including the administration of PRN range orders. Neither the major regulatory agencies or most state boards of nursing limit or forbid their use. However, misinformation negatively influences organizational positions, resulting in nurses not using range orders.

Historical published information, as well as current guidelines and positions are presented. Salient considerations and guiding principles when implementing PRN range orders are discussed. Implementation suggestions along with examples are offered.

Nurses have ethical and professional obligations to promote safe and effective pain management, optimize care and prevent harm for all patients. When caring for patients with pain administering medications through PRN range order enables nurses to provide safe, individualized analgesia.