What is the legal significance of a nurse's action when a patient verbally refuses medication and the nurse gives the medication over the patient's objection? The nurse:
a. has been negligent.
b. committed malpractice.
c. fulfilled the standard of care.
d. can be charged with battery.
D
Battery is an intentional tort in which one individual violates the rights of another through touching without consent. Forcing a patient to take medication after the medication has been refused constitutes battery. The charge of battery can be brought against the nurse.
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