The performance of a lawful act in an illegal or improper manner describes which concept?

• A. Malfeasance
• B. Misfeasance
• C. Nonfeasance
• D. Negligence

Answer: (B)

Misfeasance is performing a lawful act in an improper or defective manner. In medical practice this means the action itself is allowed, but the way it is carried out is faulty, leading to harm. For example, administering a legally prescribed medication but at the wrong dose, or performing a standard procedure with technical errors. The act is permissible, but the execution violates the expected standard of care.

Malfeasance would involve an illegal act or something not permitted by law. Nonfeasance is failing to act when there is a duty to act. Negligence refers to a broader failure to meet the standard of care, often described as carelessness, which may involve omitted actions or poorly performed care.