Malpractice is best described as which of the following?

Malpractice is best described as a legal claim involving negligence by a professional. This definition captures the essence of malpractice, which occurs when a professional fails to meet the standard of care expected in their field, leading to harm or injury to a client or patient. In the context of health and fitness, for instance, a trainer may be liable for malpractice if they provide incorrect guidance that results in injury to a client due to a lack of adequate knowledge or failure to follow established standards of practice.

The focus of malpractice is on the professional's conduct and their duty to act in a manner consistent with the norms of their profession. Establishing a claim of malpractice generally involves demonstrating that the professional had a duty to the client, breached that duty through negligent behavior, and that this breach directly resulted in harm. Understanding this concept is vital for health and fitness professionals as it underscores the importance of maintaining professional standards and providing safe, evidence-based services.