When writing a note, what should you include?

Including the chief complaint, scheduled treatment, and how the patient tolerated the procedure is essential in dental notes for several reasons.

Firstly, documenting the chief complaint provides clarity on the reason for the patient's visit, helping future practitioners understand the patient's history and the context of the treatment provided. Second, recording the scheduled treatment ensures that all parties involved in the patient's care are aware of the planned procedures, promoting continuity and consistency in care. Lastly, noting how the patient tolerated the procedure is vital for assessing the patient's response to treatment and for informing any necessary follow-up care. This comprehensive approach ensures that all critical aspects of the patient's visit are recorded, which can significantly impact patient safety and management.

In contrast, listing only the procedure performed and the patient’s name lacks critical details needed for ongoing care. Simply noting vital signs and dental materials used provides limited insight into the patient's overall treatment experience and progress. Including patient’s family history and the dentist’s schedule would typically be relevant in other contexts but does not address the immediate clinical interactions and observations from that specific visit.