Lessons in liability for pediatric nurses

Education on the legal aspects of pediatric nursing practice can help nurses develop a proactive approach to prevent patient injury and subsequent legal liability. This is an important area of professional practice because the risk of malpractice liability is often greater with the pediatric population. Children's unique health care problems, limited ability to communicate their needs, and physiological immaturity increase liability risks. This article uses a case study approach to identify specific pediatric liability risks and nursing literature to formulate strategies that pediatric nurses can use to limit their liability.