The nurse is heard stating to another staff member that, “the client i

The nurse is heard stating to another staff member that, “the client in Room 54 is such a whiner; you would think she was dying.” This nurse is liable of:

1. Libel
2. Slander
3. Malpractice
4. Invasion of privacy

ANSWER

ANS: 2
Defamation of character is the publication of false statements either verbally or in writing that result in damage to a person’s reputation. Slander occurs when one verbalizes the false statement. Libel is the written defamation of character, whereas invasion of privacy occurs when the client has unwanted intrusion into his or her private affairs. Malpractice is negligence committed by a professional such as a nurse or physician. Nursing malpractice results when care falls below the standard of care.