What term describes the failure to perform a duty in a medical context?

The term that describes the failure to perform a duty in a medical context is nonfeasance. Nonfeasance specifically refers to a situation where a healthcare provider fails to take action when they are obligated to, resulting in harm or injury to a patient. This could include scenarios where a paramedic fails to provide necessary care or assistance in an emergency situation, thus neglecting their duty of care.

In contrast, misfeasance refers to the improper performance of an act that is lawful. This means that the provider did perform a duty, but did so incorrectly or inappropriately. Malfeasance involves the performance of an unlawful act, which is typically outside the bounds of what a healthcare provider is permitted to do. Lastly, civil liability is a broader legal term that encompasses various types of responsibility or obligation under civil law, and is not specific to the failure to act. Thus, nonfeasance is the most accurate term for the failure to perform a duty in a medical context.