If a physician order states that a resident may not determine their need for a PRN (as-needed) medication, but they can communicate symptoms that would warrant its use, it means that the resident should not self-administer the medication without consulting a healthcare professional. Instead, they should report their symptoms to a healthcare provider who can then assess the situation and determine if the PRN medication is appropriate.
In this case, the resident should:
- Recognize symptoms: Be aware of the symptoms that may indicate the need for a PRN medication. These symptoms should be clearly communicated to a healthcare provider.
- Report symptoms: If the resident experiences any of the symptoms that may warrant the use of a PRN medication, they should promptly report them to a healthcare provider. This can be done through various means, such as calling a nurse or using a call button if available.
- Follow healthcare provider's instructions: After reporting the symptoms, the resident should follow the instructions given by the healthcare provider. This may include waiting for further assessment, taking other medications, or receiving a PRN medication if deemed necessary.
By following these steps, the resident can ensure that their healthcare needs are appropriately addressed while adhering to the physician's order regarding PRN medication use.