Which term refers to causing physical harm to someone?

• A. Assault
• B. Negligence
• C. Harassment
• D. Battery

Answer: (D)

Battery is the intentional physical contact with another person that is harmful or offensive and occurs without that person’s consent. It goes beyond mere touching or care actions because the key elements are intent to touch and the lack of consent, with the contact itself deemed harmful or offensive. Assault, by contrast, involves creating a fear of imminent harm or an attempted or threatened harmful contact, not the actual contact itself. Negligence refers to harm caused by failing to act with reasonable care, not intentional harm. Harassment covers unwanted conduct that causes distress, which may not involve physical contact. In nursing practice, performing a procedure or touch without proper consent, knowing it could cause harm or offense, would be battery.