Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) CBT Practice Test

If a disabled individual is only provided drinks three times a day to avoid accidents, what form of abuse is being committed?

1. Physical Abuse

2. Institutional Abuse

3. Neglect

4. Sexual Abuse

The correct answer is: Neglect

Neglect occurs when individuals do not receive the care or support necessary for their well-being, which can include basic needs such as hydration. In this case, limiting a disabled individual to drinks only three times a day, especially if it risks their health or well-being, constitutes neglect. It demonstrates a failure to provide adequate daily care and support that the individual requires, leading to potential health complications. This approach disregards the individual’s needs for consistent fluid intake and does not take into account their specific health requirements, which is a fundamental aspect of caring for individuals with disabilities. It reflects a lack of attention to the day-to-day needs of the person, ultimately compromising their dignity, health, and overall quality of life. In contrast, other forms of abuse mentioned—like physical, institutional, and sexual abuse—do not align with the scenario presented, as they involve different types of harm or mistreatment that are not solely related to the deprivation of necessary care or assistance.