An Ohio family has taken legal action against a nursing home following the tragic death of their matriarch, Lucy Garcia, who succumbed to complications from a pressure wound. The lawsuit alleges negligence and a lack of proper care at the facility, raising serious concerns about the treatment of vulnerable residents.
Key Takeaways
- Lucy Garcia, 72, died from a pressure ulcer that became infected, leading to sepsis.
- The Lucas County Coroner ruled her death a homicide due to caretaker neglect.
- The family is seeking at least $25,000 in damages, citing medical negligence.
Background of the Case
Lucy Garcia was admitted to Arbors at Oregon on January 25, 2023, for long-term care following a stroke. Her family claims that the nursing home assured them of adequate staffing and care, which they allege was not delivered.
The lawsuit states that Garcia was heavily reliant on caregivers for basic needs, including assistance with mobility and bathroom use. Despite this, the facility reportedly failed to provide the necessary support, leading to severe health complications.
Allegations of Negligence
The lawsuit outlines several key allegations against Arbors at Oregon:
- Inadequate Staffing: The facility allegedly did not have enough trained staff to meet the needs of residents, resulting in neglect.
- Improper Care: Instead of assisting Garcia to the restroom, staff reportedly placed her in adult diapers, leading to skin breakdown and the development of a pressure sore.
- Failure to Report: The nursing home allegedly did not inform the family about Garcia's deteriorating condition or the existence of the pressure wound until it was too late.
Development of the Pressure Wound
Garcia's family claims that the nursing home failed to take appropriate measures to prevent the development of bedsores. After an initial assessment, she was deemed at moderate risk for pressure ulcers, yet the necessary repositioning and care were not provided.
- Timeline of Events:
- March 5, 2024: Staff noted the first signs of a sore.
- March 13, 2024: The sore was documented as an “abrasion.”
- June 19, 2024: Family was informed that Garcia was nearing death, three months after the sore first developed.
Family's Discovery and Aftermath
When the family visited Garcia in June, they found her in a critical state, with a severe bedsore that had become infected. Despite her previous good health, her condition had rapidly declined, raising alarms about the quality of care she received.
- Medical Findings: Upon hospitalization, doctors discovered a Stage 4 bedsore, exposing bone and muscle, which was infected due to prolonged exposure to waste.
- Legal Action: The family’s attorney, Matt Mooney, emphasized the need for accountability, stating that the nursing home prioritized profits over patient care.
Conclusion
The lawsuit filed by Lucy Garcia's family highlights significant concerns regarding the treatment of residents in nursing homes. As they seek justice for their loss, the case underscores the importance of proper care and accountability in facilities that serve vulnerable populations.
The family hopes that their legal action will bring attention to the systemic issues within nursing homes and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
