Errors in the preparation of certificates and prescriptions by students of dentistry

Abstract Objective: To assess the fulfillment of fit notes and prescriptions by final-year students of a DDS program at a university in São Luís, Maranhão, with an aim towards analyzing ethical and legal standards. Methods: Three hundred fifty-one dental records were analyzed, which were obtained from patients for whom dental care was provided by final-year dental students. Data were obtained by collecting relevant information from fit notes and prescriptions using a specific form. Results: From the total of patients' records evaluated, 33.6% were found to have prescriptions and fit notes included (100 prescriptions; 18 fit notes). The most common errors found in fit notes were: absence of patient's signature (88.89%); absence of dentist's stamp (33.33%); absence of dentist's signature (22.22%); and absence of a copy obtained through an interleaving carbon-paper sheet (22.22%). Moreover, the most common errors observed in prescriptions were: absence of patient's signature (88%); absence of patient's address (87%); absence of dentist's stamp (66%); and absence of a copy obtained through an interleaving carbon-paper sheet (36%). Conclusion: Considering the failures observed, we highlight the importance of professors in providing support and coping with the improvement of fit notes and prescriptions. The goal is dental students to become aware of the fact that this activity is one of the steps towards a good dental practice, which includes from ethical to legal aspects, as well as respect for patients.