A PRN medication must be ordered by whom?

A PRN medication, which stands for "pro re nata" or "as needed," is a prescription medication that must be ordered by a licensed healthcare professional, typically a doctor. This ensures that the medication is appropriate for the individual's specific medical condition and that the dosage and usage guidelines are safe and effective.

When a doctor orders a PRN medication, they assess the individual’s health needs and provide a written prescription that outlines when and how the medication should be taken, including specific circumstances that warrant its use. This order is crucial for legal and safety reasons, ensuring that individuals receive the correct treatment under professional supervision.

The other options misrepresent the guidelines surrounding the administration of PRN medications. For instance, administering PRN medications solely based on a Direct Support Professional's discretion is inappropriate, as DSPs must adhere to the healthcare provider's directives. Also, not all PRN medications are over-the-counter; many are prescription-based, and stating that it could be recorded in the individual's medication administration record (MAR) is a procedural step, but does not clarify who has the authority to prescribe such medications.