CLEARWATER — A personal representative is suing a nursing home for alleged negligent behavior that ultimately resulted in a patient's death.
Joanna Houghton, as personal representative of the estate of Josephine Sciacca, filed a wrongful death suit July 10 in the 6th Judicial Circuit of Florida - Pinellas County against The Oaks of Clearwater alleging that the defendant breached its duty to render care and services in a safe and beneficial manner in accordance with the prevailing standard of care for nursing homes.
According to the complaint, between 2014 and 2017, Sciacca was a resident at The Oaks of Clearwater for long-term care of her daily needs, and necessary care and treatment. The suit claims Sciacca was deprived of her nursing home resident rights, which resulted in her suffering physical and emotional injuries, and ultimately death on July 9, 2017.
The plaintiff holds The Oaks of Clearwater responsible because the defendant allegedly failed to assess Sciacca's risk for choking and/or occlusive asphyxia, and failed to implement appropriate interventions.
The plaintiff requests a trial by jury; and seeks a judgment for damages in excess of $15,000, together with costs, pre-judgment interest for any out-of-pocket expenses made on behalf of Sciacca or her estate, and for any other relief the court deems appropriate. She is represented by Al Ferrera of Morgan & Morgan, Tampa, PA in Tampa.
6th Judicial Circuit of Florida - Pinellas County case number 18C4546