CLEARWATER — A daughter is suing nursing care facilities, alleging insufficient measures were taken to prevent injuries and the death of her mother.
The estate of Dixie T. Shepard, by and through Paula A. Shepard-DeVincenzo, daughter and personal representative filed a complaint July 10 in Pinellas Circuit Court against Manor Care of Palm Harbor FL, LLC, Manor Care Inc. HCR Manor Care Services, LLC, et al, alleging violation of nursing home statutes by failing to provide adequate and appropriate health care to the residents.
According to the complaint, from July 10-Aug. 13, 2016, Shepard was a resident of the defendants' nursing facility. However, Shepard-DeVincenzo says, Shepard did not receive the appropriate care, monitoring and safe environment, which caused her to suffer multiple infections, including bronchitis, cellulitis, wound infection and significant weight loss.
As a result, the suit says, Shepard suffered mental anguish, loss capacity to enjoy her life, aggravation of a previously existing condition and, ultimately, death Aug 28, 2016.
The plaintiff alleges the defendants failed to provide adequate skin assessments, failed to monitor and respond to significant signs and symptoms of infection and failed to monitor the nutritional status and appropriately treat ongoing weight loss.
Shepard-DeVincenzo seeks trial by jury, damages of more than $15,000, disgorgement of profits, attorney fees, costs, pre-judgment interest, and all other relief the court deems appropriate. She is represented by attorney Michael K. Beck of Wilkes & McHugh PA in St. Petersburg.
Pinellas Circuit Court case number 18C4550