Apply the differences between negligence and malpractice to the practice of nursing.  Provide examples to illustrate your points.

In response to Prompt 1, negligence is defined as the failure to use reasonable care to perform an action that results in harm to or injury to another individual. When a nurse does not perform to the level of care expected, it can result in injury to a patient. If a nurse gives a medicine to a client without checking allergies, the patient may have an allergic reaction.

Malpractice is also a form of negligence, which occurs when an individual, like a nurse for example, violates their duty of caring, leading to harm being caused to the patient. When a nurse does not adhere to the expected standard of care, it can result in injury to a patient. A nurse may administer the wrong medicine to a client, which can result in severe injury or harm.

Prompt 2: The case of Carole Hemmelgarn’s daughter is a tragic example of the consequences of healthcare providers failing to provide safe and effective care. Carole’s daughter died due to a medication error, which was the result of a series of failures by healthcare providers to properly communicate and coordinate care. This case is a good example of how important it is to maintain patient safety. It emphasizes communication, collaboration and the reporting of mistakes.

In situations like these, nurses can encounter several obstacles when they act on what is morally right. Fear of reprisals by their superiors or colleagues is one possible obstacle. They may fear that speaking up could hurt their career or working relationship. A lack of self-confidence or knowledge can also be a barrier to nurses speaking out or taking actions regarding patient safety.

The case illustrates how important patient safety is and why nurses should advocate for their clients, even when it’s difficult. This case highlights the importance for nurses to report errors and communicate with each other. It also emphasizes the importance to continue education and training in order to be able to deliver safe and effective healthcare.