What constitutes battery in healthcare?

Battery in healthcare is defined as offensive touching or using force against an individual without their consent. This legal concept is particularly relevant in healthcare settings, where patients have the right to make informed decisions about their bodies and treatments. If a healthcare provider performs a procedure or treatment without obtaining the patient's consent, even if the action is intended to help, it can be considered battery. This recognizes the patient's autonomy and the importance of consent in all medical interactions.

For example, if a nurse administers an injection or performs a physical examination without the patient's expressed agreement, it may lead to legal ramifications under battery laws. Consent is a fundamental principle in healthcare, and violating it through unwanted physical contact or force constitutes a breach of this principle.