Which scenario is an example of negligence?

Which scenario is an example of negligence?

• A. Complete and flawless documentation
• B. Consent was obtained for HVLA
• C. HVLA Diversified on a patient with osteoporosis/fracture
• D. Asking patient about preferences

Answer: (C)

Negligence means failing to meet the standard of care by taking a risk that a reasonably prudent practitioner would recognize as unsafe and causing harm. In this scenario, performing high-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) Diversified manipulation on a patient with osteoporosis or a fracture involves a clear contraindication. HVLA applies a forceful thrust to joints, and in bones weakened by osteoporosis or when a fracture is present, that thrust can cause a new fracture or other serious injury. Ignoring that contraindication and proceeding with the maneuver breaches the standard of care because safer options—such as using gentler techniques, avoiding manipulation, or obtaining further imaging and diagnosis—should be considered. If injury results, the breach is what links the harm to the practitioner’s actions. By comparison, actions like ensuring complete and accurate documentation, obtaining informed consent for HVLA, and asking the patient about preferences reflect appropriate, patient-centered practice and do not constitute negligence.

Negligence means failing to meet the standard of care by taking a risk that a reasonably prudent practitioner would recognize as unsafe and causing harm. In this scenario, performing high-velocity, low-amplitude (HVLA) Diversified manipulation on a patient with osteoporosis or a fracture involves a clear contraindication. HVLA applies a forceful thrust to joints, and in bones weakened by osteoporosis or when a fracture is present, that thrust can cause a new fracture or other serious injury. Ignoring that contraindication and proceeding with the maneuver breaches the standard of care because safer options—such as using gentler techniques, avoiding manipulation, or obtaining further imaging and diagnosis—should be considered. If injury results, the breach is what links the harm to the practitioner’s actions.

By comparison, actions like ensuring complete and accurate documentation, obtaining informed consent for HVLA, and asking the patient about preferences reflect appropriate, patient-centered practice and do not constitute negligence.