What legal risk does a nurse face by failing to document the client-nurse interaction?

The choice of malpractice as the correct answer centers on the concept of professional responsibility and duty of care in nursing. Malpractice occurs when a healthcare professional fails to meet the accepted standards of care, which can include failing to maintain thorough and accurate records of client interactions.

Documentation serves as a key component of patient care and safety. When a nurse does not document an interaction with a client, it may lead to a lack of evidence of the care provided, the patient's condition, or the communication that occurred. This absence of documentation can hinder appropriate patient care and may lead to adverse outcomes. If a patient suffers harm as a result of this failure, the nurse can be held accountable under malpractice law, as it is seen as a breach of the duty owed to the patient.

Having comprehensive and accurate records is vital for continuity of care, legal protection, and quality assurance. Without documentation, a nurse may find it challenging to defend their actions in a legal situation, reinforcing the risk of malpractice.