Fundamentals of Nursing Q 262
A confused client who fell out of bed because side rails were not used is an example of which type of liability?
A. Felony
B. Assault
C. Battery
D. Negligence
Correct Answer: D. Negligence
Negligence is defined as doing something or failing to do something that a prudent, careful, and reasonable nurse would do or not do in the same situation. It is the failure to meet accepted standards of nursing competence and nursing scope of practice.
Option A: Some examples of felonies include murder, rape, burglary, kidnapping, and arson. People who have been convicted of a felony are called felons. Repeat felons are punished extra harshly because sentencing laws take into consideration their criminal history. A more serious crime than a misdemeanor with a punishment greater than that for misdemeanors; can be grounds for license denial, revocation, suspension, or probation of a healthcare provider. It is punishable by imprisonment or death, depending on state law and the type of crime.
Option B: Assault is the intentional act of making someone fear that you will cause them harm. You do not have to actually harm them to commit assault. Threatening them verbally or pretending to hit them are both examples of assault that can occur in a nursing home.
Option C: Battery comprises a direct and intentional [or reckless] act of the defendant which causes some physical contact with the person of the plaintiff without the plaintiff’s consent.