Levin & Perconti has successfully negotiated a $2 million settlement for the family of Lisa Rivera, who tragically passed away in 2010 at Our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center in Chicago. The case highlights the significant consequences of medical negligence, particularly the failure to properly document patient care and ensure communication among healthcare professionals.
Key Takeaways
- $2 Million Settlement: Secured for Lisa Rivera’s family in a wrongful death case due to medical negligence.
- Critical Oversight: Failure to document diet changes led to insulin overdose, contributing to her death.
- Legal Accountability: Settlement reached through mediation, avoiding the emotional and financial toll of a trial.
What Led to Lisa Rivera's Wrongful Death at Our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center?
Lisa Rivera, a 33-year-old insulin-dependent diabetic, sought care at Our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center in Chicago in 2010 for fluid around her lungs. After undergoing a procedure to treat the condition, Rivera experienced persistent pain and was given medication, including a long-acting form of insulin. Unfortunately, she had an adverse reaction to the medication, leading to respiratory failure. Despite being revived, Rivera was placed in intensive care, where her condition continued to deteriorate.
The wrongful death lawsuit filed by Rivera’s family centered around the failure of hospital staff to document a crucial change in Rivera’s diet. When she was unable to eat orally, the nursing staff neglected to record the diet change order, resulting in an overdose of insulin. The excess insulin caused her blood sugar to drop dramatically, leading to a diabetic coma from which she did not recover.
In addition to the diet oversight, the lawsuit also accused a doctor of failing to review Rivera’s medical chart, which could have helped identify and prevent the insulin overdose. The hospital’s defense claimed that Rivera’s pre-existing kidney failure and dialysis treatments reduced her life expectancy, but this argument did not absolve the medical staff of their responsibility in the incident.
Why Did the Defense Fail to Dismiss the Negligence Claims?
The defense attempted to argue that Rivera’s existing health conditions, particularly kidney failure, played a significant role in her death. However, they could not justify the failure to properly document her diet change or the lack of medical review of her insulin regimen. These lapses in care were deemed central to the wrongful death claim, and the defense was unable to effectively counter these points.
As a result, the case was settled for $2 million, with the hospital accepting responsibility for the errors that led to Rivera’s death. The case emphasizes the importance of proper documentation, effective communication between medical staff, and a thorough review of patient information to avoid preventable tragedies.
What Was the Outcome of the Case?
Levin & Perconti successfully secured a $2 million settlement for the Rivera family. This settlement was reached through mediation, a method of alternative dispute resolution that helps parties avoid the costs and emotional toll of a full trial. While no amount of money could replace the loss of a loved one, the settlement provided the family with some measure of justice and financial relief.
The hospital’s insurers contributed to the settlement, and the case was closed without the need for a public trial. The outcome highlights Levin & Perconti’s commitment to holding healthcare providers accountable for their role in medical negligence.
Who Were the Attorneys That Secured the $2 Million Settlement?
Partner at Levin & Perconti, specializing in medical malpractice and wrongful death cases.
Partner at Levin & Perconti, renowned for her success in complex medical malpractice cases.
Together, they were able to navigate the complexities of this case, securing a settlement that helped bring closure to the Rivera family.
Why Is This Case Legally Significant?
This case underscores the deadly consequences of failing to document critical changes in a patient’s care plan and the importance of thorough chart reviews by medical professionals. Lisa Rivera’s death was avoidable, and the settlement highlights the need for accountability when healthcare providers fail to meet the standards of care.
Additionally, the case demonstrates the effectiveness of mediation as an alternative dispute resolution tool. Mediation allowed the family to receive compensation without enduring the time and emotional stress of a trial, showcasing how alternative legal processes can benefit all parties involved.
How Can Levin & Perconti Help Victims of Medical Negligence Secure Justice?
Levin & Perconti is a leading advocate for victims of medical negligence. With over $1billion in verdicts and settlements, the firm has a proven track record of helping families impacted by medical errors like wrongful death, misdiagnosis, and medication errors.
If you or a loved one has been affected by negligence, Levin & Perconti is ready to help. The firm works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay upfront fees, legal fees are only collected if the case is successful. Contact Levin & Perconti for a free consultation today.
