RN-ATI-Fundamentals-of-Nursing-2023-2024 Related

Review RN-ATI-Fundamentals-of-Nursing-2023-2024 related questions and content

A nurse is caring for a client who repeatedly refuses meals. The nurse overhears an assistive personnel (AP) telling the client, 'If you don't eat, I'll put restraints on your wrists and feed you.' The nurse should intervene and explain to the AP that this statement constitutes which of the following torts?

  • A. Battery
  • B. Assault
  • C. Negligence
  • D. Malpractice
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assault. Assault is the threat of harmful or offensive contact without the actual contact occurring. In this scenario, the AP's statement of putting restraints on the client and force-feeding them constitutes a threat of harm, which is considered assault. This is inappropriate behavior and violates the client's autonomy. Battery (choice A) involves actual harmful or offensive contact, which is not present in this situation. Negligence (choice C) refers to a failure to exercise reasonable care, which is not applicable here. Malpractice (choice D) involves professional negligence or misconduct, which is also not relevant in this context.