Levin & Perconti achieved a significant $1.1 million verdict for the family of an 84-year-old woman who suffered a debilitating stroke due to medical negligence. The case revolved around a failure by the woman’s doctor to properly manage post-surgery medication, resulting in a life-altering stroke.
Key Takeaways
- $1.1 Million Verdict: Levin & Perconti secured a significant financial award for the family of an elderly woman whose stroke resulted from medical negligence.
- Failure to Manage Medications: The patient’s doctor failed to properly reintroduce Coumadin, a crucial medication for managing her atrial fibrillation (AFib), which directly led to a stroke.
- Permanent Health Consequences: The woman became wheelchair-bound, suffered cognitive impairment, and lived with reduced quality of life until her passing four years later.
Case Overview: Negligence in Post-Surgery Care
In 2017, an 84-year-old woman was admitted to Rush North Shore Hospital after a fall that resulted in a broken ankle. After surgery, she was transferred to Lincolnwood Place Nursing Home for rehabilitation. Under the care of her primary physician, Dr. John Fultz, the woman was prescribed Coumadin to manage her atrial fibrillation (AFib), a heart condition that increases the risk of stroke. However, after surgery, Dr. Fultz failed to restart the Coumadin medication, even though tests indicated it was necessary.
The Doctor’s Mistake: Failure to Administer Medication
Coumadin is a blood thinner commonly used to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with AFib, a condition that causes irregular heartbeats, making blood clots and strokes more likely. The failure to administer this critical medication left the patient vulnerable to stroke. Dr. Fultz’s decision not to restart the Coumadin after surgery led directly to the woman suffering a stroke, which severely affected her ability to communicate, reduced her mobility, and impaired her cognitive function.
The Stroke: A Life Forever Changed
As a result of the stroke, the woman became wheelchair-bound and experienced profound cognitive impairments, including memory loss and difficulty communicating. For the next four years, she required full-time care and was unable to return to her normal lifestyle. She ultimately passed away from complications associated with the stroke.
The Legal Case: Proving Medical Negligence in Court
Levin & Perconti’s legal team was able to demonstrate that Dr. Fultz’s negligence directly contributed to the stroke and the subsequent deterioration of the woman’s health. By presenting expert testimony and detailed medical evidence, the legal team proved that the failure to administer the necessary medication was a clear deviation from accepted medical standards. As a result, the jury awarded a $1.1 million verdict to the family.
Steve Levin, Founding Partner at Levin & Perconti, commented:
“Our legal victory in this case underscores the importance of accountability in medical practice. Negligence has far-reaching consequences, and we are proud to have fought for justice on behalf of this family.”
Impact on Future Medical Negligence Cases
This case serves as a critical reminder of the importance of holding healthcare professionals accountable for their actions. It emphasizes the need for timely and appropriate care, especially for patients with pre-existing conditions like AFib. Levin & Perconti’s victory reinforces the responsibility of doctors and healthcare providers to ensure the safety and well-being of their patients at all times.
If you or a loved one has suffered from medical negligence involving medication management, contact our experienced legal team or by calling (312) 332-2872 for a free consultation.
