Certified Surgical Technologist (CST) Practice Exam

Which term describes the legal principle that a person is responsible for their negligent actions?

1. Respondeat superior

2. Estoppel

3. Negligence

4. Res ipsa loquitor

The correct answer is: Negligence

The term that best describes the legal principle that a person is responsible for their negligent actions is negligence. Negligence refers to the failure to exercise the appropriate level of care that a reasonably prudent person would under similar circumstances, resulting in harm to another person. This concept is fundamental in law and is often the basis for liability in personal injury cases. In this context, negligence emphasizes individual accountability for actions that lead to injury or damage, highlighting the importance of adhering to a standard of care. This principle serves to protect individuals, ensuring that those who are harmed as a result of someone's actions have the right to seek compensation. The other terms mentioned can relate to legal issues but do not directly define the principle of personal responsibility for negligent actions. Respondeat superior involves the idea that an employer can be held liable for the negligent acts of their employees performed within the course of employment. Estoppel prevents a party from arguing something contrary to a claim that has already been established. Res ipsa loquitor is a doctrine that allows an inference of negligence to be drawn in cases where the nature of the accident itself implies negligence without needing direct evidence.