Which statement describes negligence as an unintentional tort?

• A. ASSAULT
• B. NEGLIGENCE
• C. INVASION OF PRIVACY
• D. BATTERY

Answer: (B)

Negligence is an unintentional tort that happens when a nurse fails to provide the level of care a reasonably prudent nurse would under similar circumstances, and harm results as a result. It stems from a lapse in the standard of care rather than from a deliberate intent to hurt. For example, failing to monitor a patient after giving a medication, or not following safety protocols, can lead to harm and be considered negligence. In contrast, assault and battery involve intentional acts—creating fear of imminent harm and causing actual harm, respectively. Invasion of privacy is about intruding on or disclosing a patient’s private information, typically through intentional action. The focus with negligence is on the failure to meet the expected standard of care and the resulting harm, not on an intentional act.