The nurse is on her break in the hospital cafeteria when she overhears two nurses talking about a client's condition. The nurse understands this could lead to which of the following complaints?

Choice A reason: This statement describes assault because it involves a threat of harm. In this case, the nurse is threatening to apply restraints to a client, which can cause the client to fear imminent physical contact or harm. Assault does not necessarily involve physical contact, but the threat or attempt to cause harm.

Choice B reason: This statement describes battery rather than assault. Battery involves actual physical contact or harm. Physically forcing the client to stay after they request to be discharged constitutes battery, as it involves unwanted physical contact.

Choice C reason: This statement does not describe assault. Sending an email with a poor performance evaluation about another person is an issue of professional conduct and confidentiality but does not involve a threat of harm or physical contact.

Choice D reason: This statement does not describe assault. Making derogatory remarks about someone’s competency is an issue of professional behavior and respect but does not involve a threat or act of physical harm.

Choice A reason: Libel refers to written defamation of character. It does not apply to this situation as there are no written statements involved that defame the client.

Choice B reason: Assault involves creating a fear of imminent harmful or offensive contact. In this scenario, the nurse's action of having security apply restraints could be seen as creating an apprehension of physical harm, thereby constituting assault.

Choice C reason: False imprisonment occurs when a person is confined or restrained against their will without legal justification. Applying physical restraints to a competent client who wishes to leave the hospital can be considered false imprisonment.

Choice D reason: Slander refers to spoken defamation of character. Since this situation does not involve spoken statements that defame the client, slander is not applicable.

Choice E reason: Battery involves actual physical contact that is harmful or offensive. Having security apply physical restraints to the client constitutes battery, as it involves unwanted and offensive physical contact.