Patient neglect or abuse refers to any failure or action to a function that leads to unreasonable misery, failure, or harm to the patient. Abuse comprises sexually assaulting or physically striking a patient. It also comprises the intentional withholding of physical care, necessary food, and medical attention.
In the mentioned cases, the offenders face fines and jail time. Assaulting and abusing a patient is not only a breach of medical ethics, however, is also a crime. These crimes must be reported and are punishable by fines and jail time.