Which term refers to false statements about a person that damages their reputation when communicated to others?

• A. Defamation
• B. Ethics
• C. Fraud
• D. Confidentiality

Answer: (A)

Defamation is making a false statement about someone that harms their reputation when it is shared with others. In healthcare, spreading a false rumor about a resident—something that could cause staff, family, or others to view them unfavorably—can damage the resident’s standing and trust, and may have legal or professional consequences. The defining elements are the statement being false and its communication to others, leading to harm. If the statement is true, or if it’s just an opinion not framed as fact, it typically isn’t defamation. This concept is different from ethics (guiding what’s right), fraud (intentional deception for gain), and confidentiality (protecting resident information from disclosure).