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The term "negligence" indicates what?

  1. Failure to improve services

  2. Providing proper care based on established standards

  3. Failure to provide proper care based on established standards

  4. Providing care beyond standard requirements

The correct answer is: Failure to provide proper care based on established standards

The term "negligence" refers specifically to the failure to provide proper care based on established standards. In the healthcare context, negligence occurs when a caregiver does not meet the expected level of care that a reasonably competent professional would provide under similar circumstances. This means that if a nurse or healthcare executive fails to adhere to best practices, guidelines, or professional standards, and this failure results in harm or injury to a patient, it constitutes negligence. Understanding negligence is crucial for nurse executives, as they are responsible for ensuring that their staff is adequately trained and follows proper protocols to minimize risks to patients. This concept is foundational to legal and ethical standards in healthcare, highlighting the accountability of nurse executives in maintaining quality care. Recognizing negligence not only protects patients but also safeguards the organization from legal consequences.