A nurse PRN performs all the duties of a standard nurse. PRN is an abbreviation for the Latin pro re nata, meaning “as the need arises.” As a nurse PRN, you work on-call, checking on patients, administering medications, cleaning and feeding patients, changing linens, and performing other duties as needed. A nurse PRN works a flexible schedule, often at more than one health care facility. You must possess a broad knowledge of medical and hospital facility procedures in order to fill staffing gaps as necessary.