Which of the following are examples of medical battery? Select all that apply.

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Battery is the intentional touching of a person that is legally defined as unacceptable or occurs without the person's consent. Many routine actions that are permissible when proper consent is obtained would otherwise be considered medical battery. Furthermore, actions can be considered battery even if no physical injury results. Any health care provider (HCP) who performs a medical or surgical procedure without receiving the required informed consent from a competent client (or parent/legal guardian in the case of a child) is committing battery and could be legally charged (Option C). A competent client has the right to refuse any treatment, even if it is for the client's benefit. The nurse should help the client understand the need (eg, informed refusal), but the client's decision should be upheld. Proceeding to administer treatment to a competent client who has refused that treatment is medical battery (Option D). (Option A) The temporary restraint for this minor child is needed for a therapeutic intervention, and it is implied that the parent consents to its use. (Option B) Using a restraint to prevent a client from inadvertently removing essential medical interventions is an acceptable medical precaution. A prescription from the HCP is required, and the nurse is responsible for performing appropriate, timely assessments related to the restraint. This is not an example of battery as there is a medical reason for the restraint and a prescription/order was obtained. (Option E) This is an example of assault. Assault is a deliberate threat with the power to carry out the threat. Educational objective: Battery is touching that is legally defined as unacceptable or occurs without consent. Examples include performing a procedure despite a competent client's refusal or without obtaining proper consent from a competent client (or parent/legal guardian when the client is a child). Assault is the threat of battery.

Which of the Following Are Examples of Medical Battery? Select