Like many patients in nursing nursing homes today, Donald Bodkin’s admission was only intended to be short-term to for the purpose of assisting him with the recovery from a hip surgery. However just weeks after he was admitted to Victoria Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center (California) Mr. Bodkin (93) was found dead as the result of a ruptured ulcer in his small intestine and an infection in his bloodstream.
An investigation into his death by the California Department of Health determined that Victoria Healthcare’s inadequate care is likely to blame for Mr. Bodkin’s untimely death. An investigation confirmed that the facility failed to properly assess Mr. Bodkin’s condition or notify a physician despite well documented complaints of pain, stomach problems and low urine output.
A fine of $75,000 has been imposed on the facility as a result of the incident.
Notification of Family & Physicians
The notification of a patient’s physician in the case of a change in physical condition is not an option for nursing homes– its the law (F-Tag 157). Unfortunately, with many acute medical conditions, notification of the physician may not be enough. Facilities must continue to monitor each patient’s physical needs and take action to ensure their safety if need be.
In the above situation, I am glad that the state identified the blatant violations that appear to have cost this man his life. If anything positive can be said of this situation, hopefully this facility will begin to timely notify physicians when patients are ill or injured?
Related:
In For Rehab. Out With Bedsores.
C-Diff Infection Alleged To Blame For Death Of Nursing Home Patient
Nursing home fined in patient death, The Orange County Register, by Courtney Perkes