Question

A 50-year-old office worker has been off work with severe sciatica for 10 days. He asks you for a fit note. He is otherwise well and has not needed hospital admission. What is the most appropriate approach to certification?

Accepted Answer

Explain that he does not need a fit note for the first 7 calendar days and issue one covering sickness from day 8

Answer

Refuse to issue any fit note because back pain is not a valid reason

Answer

Issue a note backdated to the first day of sickness plus 4 weeks into the future regardless of clinical progress

Answer

Advise him to obtain a fit note from his employer rather than from you

Answer

Issue a fit note only if he agrees never to lift heavy objects again

Practice question

A 50-year-old office worker has been off work with severe sciatica for 10 days. He asks you for a fit note. He is otherwise well and has not needed hospital admission. What is the most appropriate approach to certification?