San Diego Nursing Home Faces Wrongful Death Suit

By Daniel Hawn

Published on September 28, 2006

The lawsuit was filed by the three daughters of Maria Tirado, 79, who died in January while she was a patient at La Jolla Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. A state investigation into Tirado’s death found that she died after the nursing home failed to administer blood tests to monitor her response to a drug prescribed by her doctor. In March, the state issued the nursing home a class AA citation, which includes a $94,000 fine.

According to the lawsuit, in December 2005, Tirado was treated at a hospital for a fever and respiratory problems. When she was sent back to the nursing home, her doctor ordered that she be administered the anticoagulant drug Coumadin, along with blood tests to evaluate her reaction to the drug.

Tirado died Jan. 18 from extensive bleeding on the brain and high levels of anticoagulation. The state’s investigation turned up no records of blood tests performed at the nursing home.

In response to the allegations, La Jolla Nursing and Rehabilitation Center issued a statement defending its employees as licensed and highly trained professionals who take their responsibilities seriously. The company also said it is sorry for the events surrounding Tirado’s death, and is disappointed that a single incident could overshadow years of quality care.

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