sig codes

PTCB PTCE
Order Entry and Processing
Multiple choice
Difficulty 3 of 5

Question

A pharmacy technician is transcribing an order marked PRN. Which phrase preserves that timing instruction?

As needed✓ Correct

PRN describes use according to need.
At a fixed time daily✗ Incorrect

A fixed daily time does not convey use based on need.
For one dose only✗ Incorrect

PRN does not mean a single scheduled dose.
At regular intervals regardless of need✗ Incorrect

This describes a fixed schedule rather than PRN use.

Answer

A. As needed

Rationale

PRN indicates use when needed. A fixed schedule or a one-time instruction changes that meaning.

RememberPRN means as needed.

Sources

Sources marked “Adapted from” are licensed under CC BY 4.0. We changed the material: its facts are rewritten into an original question, answer options and rationale. The original authors and publishers do not endorse SwipeExam.

Adapted from Open RN Nursing Skills, 2nd edition: Chapter 15 Administration of Enteral Medications Open RN (Chippewa Valley Technical College) · License: CC BY 4.0 · Retrieved November 2, 2026 · BASIC CONCEPTS OF ADMINISTERING MEDICATIONS › Types of Orders · 2nd edition, 2023

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