How is gross negligence defined?

• A. Intentional repeated misconduct causing harm
• B. A single careless act
• C. Neglect due to heavy workload
• D. Failure to maintain documentation

Answer: (A)

Gross negligence means a conscious disregard for the need to use reasonable care to protect clients, showing a level of recklessness or indifference that goes well beyond ordinary carelessness. It implies that the person knows there is a risk or standard to follow and repeatedly chooses to ignore it, resulting in harm or a real danger of harm. That’s why the description “intentional repeated misconduct causing harm” fits best here: it captures both the knowingly careless attitude and the repeated pattern that elevates behavior to gross negligence.

A single careless act is ordinary negligence, not gross. Neglect due to a heavy workload doesn’t necessarily reflect a deliberate disregard for safety or standards. Failing to maintain documentation is a specific compliance lapse; it can be negligence, but gross negligence requires a pattern of willful or repeated disregard that harms clients or creates substantial risk.