What does negligence refer to in nursing?

Negligence in nursing refers to the failure to act as a reasonably prudent person would in similar circumstances, specifically involving a failure to perform a duty or an omission to do something that is expected in providing care. This concept is essential in the context of healthcare because nurses are held to certain standards of care, and when they do not meet those standards, it can result in harm to the patient.

For example, if a nurse fails to administer medication that is due or neglects to follow proper procedures for patient care, this could be seen as negligence. The key aspect is that the action—or lack thereof—does not align with the expectations of a competent professional in the nursing field.

Understanding negligence is critical for nurses as it emphasizes the importance of adhering to best practices and engaging in continuous learning to mitigate risks associated with patient care. This foundational knowledge helps ensure that patients receive safe and effective care.