Which of the following would be considered gross negligence?

The concept of gross negligence involves a significant deviation from the standard of care expected of a medical professional, demonstrating a blatant disregard for the safety and well-being of patients. In the context of this question, willful avoidance of patient assessment exemplifies gross negligence because it entails intentionally neglecting a crucial aspect of patient care.

Patient assessment is foundational in emergency medical services; it allows responders to identify the nature of a patient's condition and determine the appropriate interventions. By choosing to avoid this essential step, the practitioner is consciously disregarding their duty to provide safe and effective care, which can lead to detrimental outcomes for the patient. This constitutes a severe breach of the expected standard of care, showcasing an attitude of indifference to the health and safety of those they are meant to serve.

In contrast, while each of the other options reflects a failure to uphold certain standards of care, they may not reach the level of intentional neglect or the willful disregard that characterizes gross negligence. For instance, careless handling of medical equipment might indicate a lack of training or attention but does not necessarily imply a conscious refusal to provide care. Reckless driving, while dangerous, might stem from situational pressure rather than a deliberate choice to avoid responsibilities. Ignoring standard procedures is concerning but