What type of abuse involves yelling at or threatening a patient?

The correct answer is verbal abuse. This type of abuse specifically refers to the use of spoken language to harm or intimidate another person, particularly through yelling, cursing, or threatening remarks. In a healthcare setting, verbal abuse can significantly impact a patient's mental and emotional well-being, leading to feelings of fear, anxiety, and distress.

This form of abuse can be damaging as it undermines the trust and safety that patients require in a caregiving environment. Unlike psychological abuse, which might have broader implications and include manipulation or coercive tactics, verbal abuse focuses specifically on harmful spoken interactions. Negligence refers to a failure to provide appropriate care or attention, while physical abuse involves actual bodily harm or contact. Understanding the nuances of the different types of abuse is vital for identifying and addressing inappropriate behaviors in healthcare settings.