What is defined as care that results in physical harm, pain, or mental anguish?

The term that is defined as care that results in physical harm, pain, or mental anguish is abuse. Abuse encompasses a range of harmful behaviors that can inflict significant suffering on individuals, whether that suffering is physical, emotional, or psychological.

In a healthcare context, abuse can manifest in various forms, including physical abuse, where a patient may suffer from injuries due to inappropriate actions, or emotional abuse, which can lead to mental anguish and distress. Recognizing abuse is critical for healthcare professionals, as it is essential for ensuring the safety and well-being of patients.

Negligence, while it can also lead to harm, typically refers to a failure to provide the appropriate standard of care rather than intentional harm or mistreatment. Assault, on the other hand, is more focused on the threat or act of causing injury or harm, while assault and battery both imply intentional acts to inflict harm. Thus, abuse specifically captures the broader and more encompassing nature of inflicting suffering, making it the correct term in this context.