Authors

1. Gordon, Debra B. RN, MS*
2. Dahl, June PhD+
3. Phillips, Peggy RN, BSN++
4. Frandsen, Jan MSN, RN, CRNP[S]
5. Cowley, Charlene MS, RN, CPNP||
6. Foster, Roxie L. PhD, RN, FAAN[P]
7. Fine, Perry G. MD#
8. Miaskowski, Christine PhD, RN, FAAN**
9. Fishman, Scott MD++
10. Finley, Rebecca S. PharmD, MS++++

Abstract

The use of "as-needed" or "PRN" range orders for opioid analgesics in the management of acute pain is a common clinical practice. This approach provides flexibility in dosing to meet individual patients' unique analgesic requirements. Range orders enable necessary and safe dose adjustments based on an individual's response to treatment. This paper presents the consensus statement of the American Society for Pain Management Nursing and the American Pain Society on the use of "as-needed" range orders for opioid analgesics in the management of acute pain.