By: Christopher C. Walton, Attorney at Law
FRESNO, CALIFORNIA – Raintree Convalescent Hospital, a 49-bed nursing home, was recently issued a “AA” citation and fined $80,000 by the State of California, the most severe penalty under state law. According to the Department of Public Health, the facility failed to follow its own policies and procedures for the administration of a prescribed patient diet, directly resulting in the patient’s death.
According to the report issued by the state, the patient was on a very specific diet that required soft food to prevent choking. Records obtained from the facility indicated they were specifically aware that the patient had a history of dysphagia (difficulty swallowing). Unfortunately, even in light of this known risk, the facility still served the patient a tray of food with two whole meatballs. The patient, who suffered from dementia and schizophrenia, attempted to swallow the meatballs and essentially choked to death.
Berman & Riedel, LLP, has established itself as one of the most successful elder abuse and neglect litigation firms in California. The attorneys and staff are experienced in handling these complex claims and are dedicate themselves to helping victims of abuse and neglect obtain proper compensation and justice for the wrongs they have suffered.
Christopher C. Walton is an attorney with the firm Berman & Riedel, LLP, an elder abuse and personal injury litigation firm. Mr. Walton handles elder abuse and neglect cases throughout the State of California.