What could a co-worker be accused of if they are heard making defamatory statements about a resident?

The situation described involves a co-worker making defamatory statements about a resident. In this context, the correct identification of the act is slander. Slander refers specifically to spoken defamatory remarks that can harm a person's reputation. It is a form of defamation that occurs when false statements are communicated verbally to others. Given that the statements are spoken, rather than written or published, slander is the appropriate legal term for this scenario.

On the other hand, libel relates to defamatory statements that are written or published, which does not apply here as the statements are heard, not read or published. Assault refers to a threat of physical harm, while negligence involves failing to take appropriate care in a situation, neither of which are relevant to the act of making defamatory statements. Understanding these distinctions is essential for those in the healthcare field to ensure they maintain professional communication and protect the rights and dignity of residents.