Question

An elderly, somewhat forgetful, but competent resident in a long-term care facility decides not to take an ordered antidepressant medication, although he clearly shows signs of depression. The nurse believes that the pt needs the medication. Therefore, she dissolves it in juice and does not tell the resident. She later informs the resident's son of her action, thinking it will be praised. She is surprised to find the son very angry, and he threatens legal action. What did she commit?

a) Unintentional tort (malpractice)
b) Intentional tort (slander)
c) Intentional tort ( assault/battery)

Answer 1

The nurse committed an intentional tort of battery by giving an antidepressant medication without consent. The action violates the patient's autonomy and legal rights. Not disclosing the administration of medication to the resident is a form of elder abuse and may have legal repercussions.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse administered an antidepressant medication to an elderly resident without their consent by dissolving it in juice. This action constitutes an intentional tort, specifically battery, as it involves unauthorized physical contact with the patient's person, in this case, administering medication without the resident's knowledge or consent. It disregards the patient's autonomy and right to informed consent. While the nurse may have believed that the medication was necessary for treating the resident's depression, the correct action would have been to discuss this with the resident, potentially with the involvement of the family or a responsible party, rather than resort to deception.

Elder abuse can take many forms, including the deprivation of care or intentional harm inflicted on an elderly individual. The nurse's action, although potentially well-intended to address the symptoms of depression, crosses ethical boundaries and violates legal rights, which could lead to serious consequences, including legal action from the family.