What is a PRN in the nursing field?
James Olson
Updated on March 28, 2026
Nurses, radiologic technologists, respiratory therapists, and many other healthcare workers work PRN. The initials stand for pro re nata, a Latin phrase that translates to as needed or as the situation arises. A PRN employee works when called, to fill in for an absent employee or to cover a special situation.
What are the two levels of entry into nursing?
Let’s learn more about the four core levels of nursing.
- Nursing assistant (CNA) Nursing assistants also go by the title of nursing aides or CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants).
- Licensed practical nurse (LPN)
- Registered nurse (RN)
- Advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs)
What are some interview questions to ask a nurse?
Good questions to ask in a nursing interview
- What is your culture like here?
- What is the management style?
- How do you like working here?
- What kinds of qualities are you seeking?
- What medical record systems will I be using?
- What type of orientation or training do you provide?
- Who will I be reporting to?
How many days do PRN nurses work?
A nurse is expected to work a minimum of four shifts per month. This can be any four days, no requirements for weekends or holidays.
How many hours does a PRN work?
Employee’s hired under PRN can work up to 40 hours (no overtime unless approved) and you can work at any of the communities to make those hours. (I am a Current employee). As many as are available to pick up, or as many as the employee would like without going into overtime.
What is the lowest level of nursing?
CNAs
As the name suggests, CNAs assist nurses with patient admittance and vitals. It is the lowest-level credential related to the nursing field and the quickest point of entry.
What is the highest level of nursing?
Doctor Of Nursing Practice (DNP)
Doctor Of Nursing Practice (DNP) A Doctorate Of Nursing Practice (DNP) is the highest level of nursing education and expertise within the nursing profession.
What’s the difference between an RN and a PRN?
What is the difference between an RN and a PRN? RN stands for registered nurse a PRN mean “pro re nata” or as needed. So an RN who is PRN means they are not full-time staff and are probably just contract or short-term staff. How many hours do PRN nurses work?
How many hours does a PRN nurse work?
It depends on the facility but a PRN nurse can work between 0 hours and over 40 hours a week. Why do PRN nurses make more money? PRN nurses make more money than staff nurses because they don’t have the employment benefits (for example paid time-off and health insurance) that full-time staff have.
What kind of questions do nurses get asked?
To probe your nurse superpowers, interviewers will ask nursing behavioral interview questions. These are scenario questions or “situational questions.” See our guide to get ready: Some nursing interview questions are based on more common job interview questions.
Can a travel nurse be a PRN nurse?
Yes, you could consider travel nurses as PRN nurses because travel nurses are not permanent staff at a hospital. Instead, they work based on their contract. What does prn mean on a job application? PRN on a job application is for a position that fills in when there’s not enough full-time staff to cover a position.