Nurses are subject to various legal obligations that, if violated, can lead to serious consequences. Issues such as malpractice, negligence, and breach of confidentiality are common areas where legal repercussions can arise.
Malpractice: This occurs when a nurse fails to provide the standard of care, resulting in harm to the patient. Malpractice lawsuits can lead to significant financial penalties, loss of license, and damage to professional reputation.
Negligence: Negligence involves failing to take proper care in doing something, leading to unintended harm to the patient. This can also result in legal action and financial liabilities.
Breach of Confidentiality: Nurses are bound by laws such as HIPAA to protect patient information. Violating these laws can result in legal action, including fines and imprisonment.
