Adding PRN Medications to eMar
PRN (Pro Re Nata – “as required”) medications are administered only when needed rather than on a regular schedule.
Prerequisites
- You must have medication administration permissions
- You need a valid prescription or MAR sheet
- The service user must already exist in the system
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Navigate to the Service User’s eMar
- Go to Service Users → All Service Users
- Find and click on the service user’s name
- Click the “eMar” tab in their record
- Click the “+ Add Medication” button
2. Select Medication Type
In the popup modal, select “PRN (As Required)” from the medication type dropdown. This is important as it changes the available fields and administration options.
3. Complete Basic Medication Information
Fill in all required fields (marked with red asterisks):
- Medication Name: Full name as written on prescription (e.g., “Paracetamol 500mg Tablets”)
- Strength/Dosage: Exact strength (e.g., “500mg”)
- Form: Select from dropdown (tablet, capsule, liquid, cream, etc.)
- Route: How it’s administered (oral, topical, inhalation, etc.)
- Quantity per Dose: Amount to give (e.g., “2 tablets”)
4. Set PRN-Specific Details
- Reason for Use: When should this be given? (e.g., “Pain relief”, “Anxiety”, “Sleep”)
- Maximum Dose in 24 Hours: Safety limit (e.g., “8 tablets” or “4000mg”)
- Minimum Time Between Doses: How long to wait (e.g., “4 hours”, “6 hours”)
- Additional Instructions: Any special guidance from the prescriber
5. Add Prescription Details
- Prescriber Name: Doctor’s full name
- Prescription Date: Date the medication was prescribed
- Start Date: When the medication can first be given
- Review Date: When the prescription needs reviewing
6. Review and Save
Double-check all information against the prescription. Ensure the maximum dose and minimum interval are correct – this prevents overdose. Click “Save PRN Medication” and you’ll see a success message.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not setting a maximum dose limit – this is a critical safety feature
- Forgetting to specify minimum time between doses
- Not uploading a copy of the prescription
- Not specifying the reason for use clearly