Final answer:
True, failure to meet a reasonable standard of duty of care can make a person or entity legally liable for harm caused. This extends to healthcare workers and manufacturers who must uphold a high standard of care, and liability may arise if they follow a procedure or use equipment that causes harm.
Step-by-step explanation:
True, if you did not take reasonable steps to do your duty of care and this either caused or added to the harm, then you can be held legally responsible (liable) for what you did or for what you did not do. In the context of the question, one has a legal obligation to act with a certain standard of care, and failure to do so may result in liability for any damage or harm caused. This concept is a cornerstone of tort law, where a breach of duty of care that leads to injury or loss can make a person or entity legally responsible.
For example, health-care workers and hospitals have a duty of care towards their patients. If they strictly follow a flawed procedure, which then causes harm, they may be held liable for not meeting the standard of care expected of them, even if they followed an established procedure. Similarly, if a manufacturer's medical equipment fails or is found defective, they may be liable if using the equipment is below the expected standard of care. Consequently, the government plays a role in ensuring medical equipment and protocols are safe, but it is ultimately the responsibility of health-care professionals and manufacturers to provide a high standard of care and make judgment calls when necessary.