Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 81%
Simulated
A client refuses to have pain medication administered by injection. The nurse states, 'If you don't let me give you the shot, I will get help to hold you down and give it.' What tort may the nurse be committing?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
The correct answer is C: Assault. Assault is the intentional threat of harmful or offensive contact with another person, causing fear of imminent contact. In this scenario, the nurse's statement of forcefully administering the injection without consent constitutes assault. The client perceives a threat of harm, creating fear. Battery (choice A) involves actual physical contact without consent, which has not yet occurred. Negligence (choice B) is the failure to provide reasonable care, not applicable in this situation. Defamation (choice D) involves false statements that harm one's reputation, not relevant here.