Pro Re Nata (PRN) prescription in an Inpatient Low Secure Learning Disability Unit.

INTRODUCTION

Pro Re Nata (PRN) prescribing in psychiatry is a common and valuable facility to be used in acutely distressed patients. It is open to misuse and PRN prescribing may be unnecessary/inappropriate.

AIM

The aim of the audit is to ensure safe and effective prescription of PRN medication.

AUDIT STANDARDS

The standards were set in congruence with the guidance from the local trust policy.

METHODOLOGY

All of the inpatient records at Wood Lea clinic were studied over a 2 month period.

CONCLUSIONS

Most of the standards against which the clinical notes were assessed gave evidence of good medical practice. Patient demographics demonstrated a 100% record of the NHS number but the patient's name and ward fell short.

RECOMMENDATIONS

This was presented locally and measures put in place to address gaps. Re-audit should be performed within a year in order to complete the audit cycle and to ensure that recommendations/action plan have been followed through.