Non-feasance is defined as which of the following?

• A. Performing an unnecessary act
• B. Negligence causing harm
• C. Improper documentation
• D. Failure to perform a required act or duty

Answer: (D)

Nonfeasance means failing to do something you have a duty to do. In paramedic practice, this is an omission—omitting a required action or intervention when it should have been performed. For example, not initiating CPR when a patient is in cardiac arrest or not reassessing and escalating care when indicated. The harm comes from the absence of action, not from an action taken.

This differs from performing an unnecessary act, which is an action carried out without indication. It also differs from negligence, which is a broader failure to meet the standard of care and can involve actions or omissions that fall short of what is expected. Documentation errors are about records, not the failure to provide care. Hence, the description that fits best is the failure to perform a required act or duty.