Which statement best defines nursing malpractice?

• A. It occurs when nursing care falls below the standards of care
• B. It is prevented by following a nurse's personal beliefs
• C. It only occurs if there is intentional harm
• D. It is corrected by asking for forgiveness after the fact

Answer: (A)

Nursing malpractice is professional negligence—the nurse’s care falls below the standard expected of a reasonably competent practitioner, and harm to the patient results. The standard of care is defined by what a prudent nurse would do in similar situations, based on evidence-based guidelines, training, and facility policies. To establish malpractice, four elements are usually considered: duty to the patient, a breach of the standard of care, harm or damages, and a causal link between the breach and the harm.

This is why the statement is correct: care that does not meet the established standards can lead to patient injury or complications, and that breach, not intent, is what defines malpractice. Personal beliefs do not set professional practice, and malpractice can occur even without intentional harm. Apologizing after the fact does not erase negligence.