PRN usage before and after discharge from a forensic inpatient unit: A series example of patients with intellectual disabilities

Adults living with intellectual and developmental disabilities are often prescribed psychotropic medication on an "as needed" basis (PRN) in response to behavioural challenges. In the present study we conducted a retrospective analysis of medication administration records in the 6-months preceding and following discharge of 11 adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to community settings from forensic inpatient units within a mental health hospital. We found a significant reduction in the frequency of PRN usage after discharge. We propose potential reasons for the difference in PRN administration across settings and make suggestions for future research.