What should dentists ensure about their electronic records in case of system failure?

Dentists must ensure that their electronic records have a secure backup solution as part of their practice's risk management and compliance with data protection regulations. A secure backup is essential because it protects patient information from being lost due to system failures, cyberattacks, or accidental deletions. Having reliable backups allows dentists to restore their records and maintain continuity of care, which is crucial for patient health and trust.

The other options present risks or misunderstandings about data management. Retrieving records without a backup in case of failure can lead to significant data loss, jeopardizing patient care and practice operations. Permanently deleting records to save space compromises the integrity and availability of necessary information, which is not permissible under most laws governing patient records. Additionally, while sharing records across devices may facilitate access, it does not address the critical aspect of data protection and security that backups provide. Hence, the focus on having a secure backup solution is paramount for compliance and safeguarding patient information.