What tort has a medical assistant committed by placing a dropped instrument back on a sterile field?

The scenario described involves a medical assistant placing a dropped instrument back on a sterile field, which compromises the sterility of that field. This action can be classified as negligence because it reflects a failure to meet the standard of care that is expected in a medical setting. Negligence occurs when an individual doesn't act with the care that a reasonably prudent person would exercise in a similar situation, leading to potential harm or increased risk to patients.

In the context of a sterile field, the expectation is that all instruments and supplies must remain sterile to prevent infection and other complications during surgical or medical procedures. By reintroducing a contaminated instrument, the medical assistant increases the likelihood of a surgical site infection or other adverse outcomes, which exemplifies a breach of duty to provide safe care to patients.

Understanding this scenario illustrates the importance of adhering to safety protocols and maintaining a sterile environment, as any actions that deviate from established standards can lead to serious consequences for patient safety.