Which term describes failure to provide the standard of care that would be expected from a reasonably competent professional?

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

Answer: (A)

Failing to meet the standard of care expected from a reasonably competent professional is negligence. In healthcare, providers are expected to act as a similarly skilled professional would under the same circumstances, and when that standard isn’t met and harm or potential harm results, negligence describes the lapse. Malpractice refers to a legal claim alleging professional negligence and accountability for damages, rather than the act itself. Incapacity means an inability to perform duties due to illness or disability, and duty is simply the obligation to provide care. So negligence best matches the described scenario.