ARRT Patient Care Practice Exam

Which legal phrase describes a situation where both the health care provider's and the patient's actions caused an injury?

1. Intentional misconduct

2. Contributory negligence

3. Gross negligence

4. None of the above

The correct answer is: Gross negligence

The scenario presented involves both the actions of the healthcare provider and the patient contributing to an injury, which aligns with the concept of contributory negligence. This legal phrase refers to a situation where an individual's own negligence played a role in the harm they experienced. In a case of contributory negligence, the patient's actions, whether through their own decision-making or failure to follow medical advice, can reduce or eliminate the liability of the healthcare provider. In contrast, intentional misconduct refers to actions taken with the intent to harm, and gross negligence is a more severe form of negligence that demonstrates a reckless disregard for the safety of others. Neither of these accurately describes a situation where both parties are responsible. The phrase "none of the above" is not applicable since contributory negligence accurately captures the shared responsibility in this scenario. Therefore, the recognition of contributory negligence is fundamental in understanding legal accountability in healthcare contexts, where both the patient's and caregiver's actions can lead to an injury.