Which of the following best describes a situation of abandonment in healthcare?

In healthcare, abandonment occurs when a provider ceases to care for a patient without proper notice or arrangement for alternative care. This can lead to significant harm for the patient, as they may be left without necessary medical attention or support. Withdrawing from patient care without any prior notice disrupts the continuity of care and can result in adverse health outcomes for the patient who may rely on that care for management of their health conditions.

The other scenarios do not fit the definition of abandonment. Completing a drug treatment regimen indicates the patient is following through with their prescribed care plan, which is an essential aspect of managing health. Accurately referencing medical history is a critical process in providing appropriate care and ensures that healthcare providers have all necessary information to make informed decisions. Lastly, providing unresolved medical counsel may imply a lack of clarity or thoroughness in communication but does not inherently involve abandoning the patient, as care is still being provided, albeit inadequately.