Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 67%
Practice
An investigation into reports of substandard care on the subacute geriatric unit of a hospital has been undertaken. Which of the following events is representative of malpractice on the part of the nursing staff?
Correct answer
A
Rationale
Answer A is correct as it includes all the components of malpractice: duty, negligence, and injury. The nursing staff failed in their duty by leaving a client with a documented history of seizures unattended with bedrails not in place, resulting in a fall and head injury. Answer B involves an issue related to consent, which is the responsibility of the physician, not the nursing staff. Answer C does not demonstrate negligence or harm caused by the nursing staff. Answer D also shows negligence by failing to turn an immobile client, leading to a pressure ulcer, but it lacks a direct connection to the duty of the nursing staff in preventing harm.