How distinguishes an error from negligence?

• A. Error equals negligence.
• B. Error is a deliberate act; negligence is a mistake.
• C. Error is a mistake that does not rise to negligence; negligence is a failure to meet the standard of care.
• D. They are the same.

Answer: (C)

Distinguishing error from negligence hinges on the standard of care expected of a professional. An error is a mistake or misjudgment made despite exercising reasonable care and competence; it can occur even when you’ve acted properly. Negligence, on the other hand, is a failure to meet the standard of care—effectively a breach of the duty to act as a reasonably prudent professional would in similar circumstances—and it is typically tied to harm or damages that result from that breach.

So, a mistake that does not reach the level of a standard-of-care breach is an error. Negligence involves a breach of the standard of care, meaning the professional did not perform to the expected level and this breach caused harm.