Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) A Practice Exam 2025 - Free SANE Practice Questions and Study Guide

In a healthcare setting, 'duty' refers to the obligation that healthcare professionals have to provide care in a competent and ethical manner. Providing direct care to a patient is a clear example of establishing this duty. It represents the commitment of healthcare providers to take responsibility for the wellbeing of their patients and to meet the standard of care expected in their profession.

Direct patient care involves various aspects, such as assessing the patient's needs, monitoring their condition, and delivering appropriate treatments. By actively engaging with patients, healthcare professionals fulfill their duty to care, which is foundational to effective healthcare practices and legal responsibilities.

The other options illustrate scenarios that do not establish 'duty.' Administering treatment without consent violates ethical and legal principles of patient autonomy. Ignoring unattended patients breaches the duty of care, which obligates healthcare providers to ensure patients are monitored and supported. Discussing patient health in group settings can compromise confidentiality and trust, further straying from the professional duty to safeguard patient information.