A lawsuit claims that a male patient admitted to a hospital suffering from repeated respiratory problems and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma was discharged, placed in a cab by hospital security and sent home. His mother asserts that he was dying or perhaps already dead when placed in the taxi. In addition, she claims her son was given the wrong medicine because of a misdiagnosis. According to the lawsuit, the man was discharged after he got the first dose of the correct drug and was declared in stable condition by hospital personnel. By the time the cab arrived at his home, his mother found him cold when she touched him and completely unresponsive.

The mother believes the hospital negligence was so apparent that two different hospital employees, as well as the cab driver, stated their concerns about him leaving the premises. Two security guards employed by a security contractor allegedly carried out his removal from the hospital, transporting him in a wheelchair through the lobby, and then carrying him to and placing him in the cab. During this time, the man was clearly unresponsive. Earlier, the son had objected to being discharged, but by the time he was placed in the cab, he was unable to talk or walk.

The plaintiff seeks compensatory damages for wrongful death, negligent infliction of emotional distress and overall negligence, as well as the imposition of punitive damages as punishment for egregious wrongdoing. All too many times, hospitals and their personnel, both nationwide and in Ohio, seem to have their eye more on the bottom line than on the actual welfare of patients. This can lead to the staff rushing to discharge patients to free up a bed when someone is still too ill to leave.

News reports did not indicate the insurance status of the patient. There have been instances in which patients without insurance were admitted through emergency rooms with severe health problems, only to receive minimal treatment and then discharged. This has resulted in seriously aggravated illnesses or death.

Those who have lost a loved one due to medical negligence have the right to seek compensation from the responsible party or parties. Experienced personal injury attorneys can help those interested in pursuing such a lawsuit learn more about their options.

Source: 
Medical Daily, "Hospital Security Sends Dead Patient, A'Darrin Washington, Home In Taxi: Lawsuit" John Ericson, Dec. 18, 2013