In legal terms, which word describes the legal responsibility for actions or omissions?

• A. Duty
• B. Liability
• C. Negligence
• D. Malpractice

Answer: (B)

Liability is the legal responsibility for the consequences of one’s actions or omissions. It means a person or organization may be held accountable and answer in damages or remedies when their conduct harms someone or breaches a duty. In nursing and healthcare, liability arises when the care provided or the lack of care causes harm, regardless of whether the issue was intentional.

Duty refers to the obligation to provide appropriate care; it’s the obligation itself, not the outcome. Negligence is the failure to meet the expected standard of care, a breach that can lead to liability. Malpractice specifically describes professional negligence within the medical field. Since the question focuses on the overall legal responsibility for outcomes, liability is the best fit.