It is worth noting that situations similar to those described in this medical malpractice case could just as easily occur at any of the healthcare facilities in the area, such as Kaiser Permanente, U.C. Davis Medical Center, Mercy, Sutter, or any skilled nursing facility.
(Please also note: the names and locations of all parties have been changed to protect the confidentiality of the participants in this wrongful death case and its proceedings.)
As the court in College Hosp. v. Superior Court, (1994) 8 Cal.4th 704, stated, the issue of ratification commonly arises where the employer or its managing agent is charged with failing to intercede in a known pattern of workplace abuse, or failing to investigate or discipline the errant employee once such misconduct became known. In Intrieri v. Superior Court (2004) 117 Cal.App.4th 72, the Court concluded the health provider’s failure to respond to known deteriorating pressure sores constituted a reckless failure to provide medical care for her physical health needs and that no changes were made to the patient care plan and/or that the care plan was not followed even with full knowledge that the pressure sore was deteriorating. The court further found that it would be reasonably inferred from this chain of events that [the health care provider] acted with reckless neglect in caring for Mrs. Intrieri. For more information you are welcome to contact Sacramento personal injury lawyer, Moseley Collins.
The same is true in this case. Plaintiff has alleged facts of a pattern of reckless neglect, disregarding dietary plans and instructions, and failing to reposition Mr. Lee, for 39 days. These facts are sufficient to support the inference that supervisors and managers of the nurses and staff whom intentionally violated the standing dietary plan and instructions and failed to reposition Mr. Lee for weeks ratified this type of treatment of Mr. Lee.
In addition, plaintiff alleges facts that the managing agents of the hospital ratified this pattern of reckless conduct. (See Part 7 of 9.)
For more information you are welcome to contact Sacramento personal injury lawyer, Moseley Collins.