Which is an element required to prove malpractice through negligence?

• A. Faulty medical machine malfunction
• B. Intentional harm
• C. Damages resulting from the conduct
• D. Unrelated personal injury

Answer: (C)

To prove malpractice based on negligence, you must show that the professional’s conduct caused actual harm to the patient. The key element is damages—the injuries or losses that result from the breach of the expected standard of care. Without demonstrable damages linked to the negligent act, there’s no basis for a malpractice claim, even if a breach of duty occurred.

Damages can be economic, like medical bills or lost wages, or non-economic, such as pain and suffering. Another factor, like a malfunctioning machine, isn’t itself the required element; it might contribute to a claim but isn’t the essential proof you need. Intentional harm isn’t necessary in negligence—intent would point to a different type of tort. And unrelated personal injury wouldn’t be connected to the alleged negligence, so it wouldn’t support the claim.