Which scenario best illustrates negligence in patient care?

• A. Forgetting to set the bed alarm
• B. Administering the correct medication with proper timing
• C. Performing care exactly as ordered
• D. Prioritizing patient safety

Answer: (A)

The key idea here is negligence in patient care: a breach of the standard of care that creates risk of harm due to an omission or unsafe practice. Forgetting to set the bed alarm removes a safety measure designed to detect or deter a patient from attempting to get out of bed, which can lead to a fall and injury. In nursing, a reasonable, prudent caregiver would implement safety checks and alarms when appropriate; failing to do so constitutes a lapse that endangers the patient.

Administering the correct medication with proper timing reflects following safe medication practices and proper dosing/warning precautions, which aligns with good care rather than negligence. Performing care exactly as ordered shows adherence to the prescribed plan, provided those orders are appropriate and safe. Prioritizing patient safety is the opposite of negligent behavior; it embodies the proactive actions that prevent harm.