Question 59

Every night at bedtime as needed

The sig code q hs PRN indicates that a medication should be taken every night at bedtime as needed. This instruction specifies both the timing (at bedtime) and the condition under which the medication may be taken (as needed).

A) Every night at bedtime as needed

This option is correct as it accurately reflects the meaning of the sig code q hs PRN. "q" stands for "every," "hs" means "at bedtime," and "PRN" signifies that the medication should be taken as needed, confirming the full intent of the prescription.

B) Every day after meals as directed

This option is incorrect because it does not align with the meaning of the sig code. The phrase "after meals" does not appear in the code, and "every day" does not match the "every night" specification of "hs."

C) Every evening as needed

While this option is somewhat similar, it is incorrect because "evening" does not precisely equate to "bedtime." The term "at bedtime" conveys a more specific time than simply "evening," which could vary widely.

D) Every hour as directed

This option is incorrect as it misrepresents the frequency indicated by the sig code. "Every hour" is not consistent with "q hs," which specifically designates a nightly occurrence rather than hourly administration.

Conclusion

The correct answer, "Every night at bedtime as needed," directly reflects the sig code q hs PRN, clearly indicating both the timing and condition for medication use. In contrast, all other options fail to capture the specific instructions provided by the code, either by misrepresenting the timing or the conditions for administration.