What it means
The measure used to judge whether a nurse's actions were acceptable. It is set by nurse practice acts, professional standards such as those of the American Nurses Associationuh-MAIR-ih-kun NUR-siz uh-soh-see-AY-shunThe professional organization for registered nurses in the United States.Full entry , facility policies and procedures, and evidence-based guidelines. Failing to meet the standard of care, when it causes harm, is the basis of negligenceNEG-lih-junsFailure to use the care that a reasonably careful person would use in the same situation.Full entry and malpracticemal-PRAK-tisNegligence by a professional, such as a nurse or doctor, that harms a client.Full entry claims.
For the nurse
Follow facility policy and current evidence, and document the care given. When an order or situation seems unsafe, question it through the chain of command.
At a glance
| Spanish | estándar de atención |
|---|---|
| Also written | standards of care |
Related terms
evidence-based practice
Care that combines the best research findings with clinical experience and the client's own wishes.
documentation
The written or electronic record of a client's care, condition and response.
negligence
Failure to use the care that a reasonably careful person would use in the same situation.
malpractice
Negligence by a professional, such as a nurse or doctor, that harms a client.