A type of negligence that occurs when a person fails to perform a legally required duty is called what?

• A. Negligence
• B. Malpractice
• C. Nonfeasance
• D. Assault

Answer: (C)

The main idea is an omission of a required duty. When a nurse fails to perform a legally or professionally required action, and harm results, that is nonfeasance—an act of not doing what should have been done. In nursing, you have duties to monitor, intervene, or administer care according to the standard of practice; not taking those actions when required fits nonfeasance. This is different from negligence in general, which covers any lapse in the standard of care, whether you act poorly or fail to act. Malpractice would involve professional negligence tied to a deviation from the expected standard of care, not just a simple failure to perform a duty. Assault, on the other hand, is an intentional threat or attempt to cause harm, which is not about failing to perform a duty.