What is the first step you should take when your brother-in-law requests a prescription for an antibiotic due to a toothache?

Establishing the brother-in-law as a patient of record and performing a limited exam is the correct first step in this scenario. This approach aligns with ethical and legal practices in dentistry, which require a practitioner to have an established doctor-patient relationship before prescribing medications, including antibiotics.

By conducting a limited examination, you ensure that you are providing appropriate care based on a proper assessment of the patient's condition. This step not only helps in assessing the necessity for antibiotics but also allows you to evaluate whether the toothache is due to a dental issue that requires immediate attention or if other treatments could be more suitable. This practice upholds the standards of patient safety and care quality, ensuring that prescriptions are given based on valid medical justification rather than familial ties or informal requests.

The other options lack adherence to proper legal and ethical standards in dentistry. Writing a prescription immediately could lead to inappropriate use of medication without proper evaluation. Referring the brother-in-law to another dentist without first assessing his condition may not be necessary if you are qualified to manage his dental issue. Lastly, while offering over-the-counter medication might provide temporary relief, it does not address the underlying cause of the toothache and fails to provide appropriate medical care. Thus, performing a limited exam is essential to ensure