Which term describes a chiropractor under the influence of substances while treating a patient?

In the context of chiropractic practice, the term that best describes a chiropractor under the influence of substances while treating a patient is "gross malpractice." This term is used to indicate a severe degree of negligence or misconduct that goes beyond ordinary malpractice. Being under the influence of substances can impair judgment, reduce the quality of care, and endanger patient safety, which are all critical components of professional conduct expected from healthcare providers.

Gross malpractice is typically characterized by actions that demonstrate a blatant disregard for the standards of care that a reasonable practitioner would adhere to. In this scenario, treating patients while impaired reflects an extreme failure to meet those standards and can result in serious consequences for both the chiropractor and the patient. It signifies not just a simple error, but a profound violation of ethical and professional responsibilities, compelling enough to warrant severe penalties or legal action.

In contrast, terms like normal practice, malpractice, and excessive error either denote a standard level of care or less severe forms of negligence, which do not capture the gravity of a practitioner actively treating patients while under the influence.