A wife and mother of three in her early 40’s entered a South Florida emergency department after suffering from the flu for a few days. Upon arrival, doctors noted she was in critical condition and in “impending cardiovascular collapse.” Her heart rate and blood pressure were low, she was cyanotic and blood work showed evidence of heart damage. A CT scan revealed the patient was suffering from Cardiac Tamponade, which is a condition where fluid surrounds the heart, not allowing it to beat properly. Tragically, the CT scan was never relayed to her treating physicians or nurses. Overnight, while in the intensive care unit the patient continued to deteriorate, yet the nursing staff failed to alert any doctors of her condition. When a cardiologist finally saw her over 18 hours after she arrived in critical condition, he quickly diagnosed the Cardiac Tamponade and attempted to relieve the pressure around her heart by placing a needle into the pericardial sac to drain the fluid. Unfortunately, the hours of her heart not being able to function properly caused irreversible damage and she tragically died soon after the procedure. After extensive litigation, with trial fast approaching, the GRYC team was able to successfully negotiate a seven-figure settlement.
GRYC has been a voice for injured victims in the South Florida area since 1988. Together, we will be heard. Together, we can make change happen.
