Which scenario illustrates a breach of the standard of care?

• A. Providing appropriate care when indicated.
• B. Ordering unnecessary tests.
• C. Failing to order an EKG in a patient with chest pain.
• D. Following all hospital protocols.

Answer: (C)

The concept here is the standard of care, which is what a reasonably prudent clinician would do in similar circumstances to avoid harm. For someone with chest pain, obtaining an ECG is a basic, essential first step in the initial evaluation. An ECG can quickly reveal signs of a heart attack or other dangerous conditions, guiding urgent treatment. If you fail to order an ECG in a patient with chest pain, you’re not providing the care that is typically expected and you’re delaying critical information and potential treatment—a clear deviation from the standard of care.

By contrast, providing appropriate care when it’s indicated and following hospital protocols are consistent with meeting the standard of care. Ordering tests that are unnecessary can be inappropriate or wasteful, but it does not illustrate the same failure to perform a needed initial assessment for chest pain as omitting the ECG does.