A nurse failed to monitor a patient's respiratory status after medicating the patient with a narcotic analgesic. The patient's respiratory status worsened, requiring intubation. The patient's family claimed the nurse committed malpractice. What must be present for the nurse to be held liable? (Select all that apply.)
a. A nurse-patient relationship exists.
b. The nurse failed to perform in a reasonable manner.
c. There was harm to the patient.
d. The nurse was prudent in her performance.
e. The nurse did not cause the patient harm.
f. Duty does not exist.
ANS: A, B, C
For the court to uphold the charge of malpractice, and to find the nurse liable, the following elements must be present: duty exists, there is a breach of duty, and harm must have occurred.
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