Which scenario is an example of nursing liability?

• A. Failing to monitor a patient according to the standard of care
• B. Providing excellent care
• C. Following orders without question
• D. Not documenting anything

Answer: (A)

Nursing liability arises from failing to meet the standard of care—the duty to provide care using the knowledge and skills a reasonably prudent nurse would in the same situation. When that duty is breached and patient harm results, liability can follow. Not monitoring a patient according to the standard of care is a breach of that duty because ongoing assessment and timely intervention are essential to detect changes in condition. If deterioration is missed or action is delayed, harm can occur, making the nurse legally responsible. By contrast, providing excellent care aligns with the standard and does not imply liability. Following orders without question is not, by itself, a liability; it’s appropriate when the orders are safe and appropriate, though failing to question dangerous orders would be a separate liability issue. Not documenting anything is risky because good documentation is part of the standard of care; lack of documentation can lead to questions about what care was provided and can contribute to liability, but the most direct example among the scenarios is failing to monitor according to the standard of care.