Which of the following is included in the definition of neglect?

Neglect is defined as the failure to provide necessary care to a patient, leading to harm or potential harm. The correct choice, which describes ignoring a patient's needs, directly aligns with this definition. It indicates a lack of attention to what the patient requires, whether it be medical attention, emotional support, or basic necessities like food and hygiene.

In the context of healthcare, neglect can occur when caregivers fail to respond to a patient's fundamental needs, which can critically impact their health and well-being. This form of inattention can lead to serious consequences for patients, making it a significant area of concern within healthcare practices.

The other options focus on different types of violations—such as providing care without consent (which relates to issues of autonomy and rights), physical assault (which involves intentional harm), and financial exploitation (which pertains to improper use of a patient’s financial resources)—none of which specifically represent neglect in its definition pertaining to healthcare context.