Question: Is there any defences available should the plantiff be successful for: Breach of Duty - The nurse failed to meet the standard of care that is expected in the specific situation. In this case, the nurse administered double the prescribed medication, it is considered a breach of duty. Causation - The breach of duty caused harm to the patient. It must be proven that the nurse's action (or inaction) directly caused the patient's harm. Damages - The patient suffered harm and injury as a result of the nurse's negligence. He suffered both physical harm and emotional distress, and can also suffer additional medical costs, etc.