Writing a Drug Prescription

A prescription is an instruction from a prescriber to a dispenser. Prescription errors are common in general practice and can result in harm to patients. In most cases, errors in prescribing can be avoided with simple measures. Therefore, teaching good prescribing translates into a safe working environment. There is no international standard for prescriptions, and every country has its own regulations. The most significant requirement is that the prescription be legible and should indicate precisely what needs to be given. This paper reviews the basics of good prescribing, before, during and after the process of writing the prescription.