Treatment resulting in injury, unnecessary suffering, or death caused by carelessness or negligence is known as what?

The term that describes treatment resulting in injury, unnecessary suffering, or death caused by carelessness or negligence is malpractice. Malpractice involves a breach of the standard of care expected from a professional, which, in the context of veterinary medicine, means failing to provide appropriate treatment that a competent practitioner would usually deliver.

When a veterinarian acts in a manner that is not in line with the accepted practices of the profession, and this leads to harmful outcomes for the animal, it constitutes malpractice. This can include errors in diagnosis, improper treatment, or failure to obtain informed consent, among others.

Understanding malpractice is crucial for veterinary professionals as it emphasizes the importance of adhering to professional standards to ensure the safety and well-being of animals in their care. This concept also underscores the legal responsibilities veterinarians bear for their actions and decisions in professional practice.