Archive for the ‘Financial Exploitation’ Category

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Narcotics Stolen from Residents at Capital View Transitional Care

Written By: Kenneth LaBore | Published On: 25th March 2017 | Category: Financial Exploitation | RSS Feed

Medication Theft – Stolen Pain Medications at Capital View Transitional Care in St Paul Minnesota

Capital View Transitional Care Pain Medication Stolen From Clients

In a report dated March 2, 2017 from the Minnesota Department of Health, it was alleged that staff at Capital View Transitional Care

Capital View Transitional Care – Medication Theft

Based on a preponderance of the evidence, financial exploitation occurred when the alleged perpetrator (AP) took multiple narcotic medication from three resident’s over approximately two months. There was no indication any of the residents suffered any pain as a result.

Resident #1 and #2 were at the facility for post operative care and were receiving narcotic medication for pain. Resident #3 was receiving narcotics for leg pain.

During Resident #1’s discharge, the nurse reviewed the remaining narcotic medication with Resident #1. Resident #1 stated s/he did not request or received the amount of pain medication doses that were recorded in the record as administered. The nurse notified administration of the discrepancy. Additional residents were interviewed and similar comments were obtained from Resident #2 and Resident #3.

Resident #1 was interviewed stating s/he did not take as many medications as documented by the facility. The Resident only took one narcotic at any given time and the documentation indicated she received two tablets.

Resident #2 was interviewed and stated s/he did not like to take narcotics and denied taking all the narcotics documented in the medical record.

Resident #3 was not available for interview.

The AP was interviewed and admitted to taking narcotics from residents residing in the facility. The AP stated she would sign out two medications, give one to the resident and keep the other. In addition, the AP would sign out a narcotic medication when the resident didn’t ask for it and keep it for her/himself. The AP was unable to identify which residents, how often, or how much narcotic medication was taken from the residents.

Based on a review of resident #1, #2, and #3’s medical records it is suspected that the AP took between 20-20 narcotics.

The facility reported the incident to the Board of Nursing and terminated the AP.

Report Suspected Abuse or Neglect at Capital View Transitional Care

Click Here For Link To Report Abuse To Adult Protection

For more information from the Minnesota Department of Health, Office of Health Facility Complaints concerning nursing homes, assisted living and other elder care providers view resolved complaints at the MDH website.

If you have concerns about medication theft / financial exploitation or any other form of elder abuse or neglect contact Minnesota Elder Abuse Attorney Kenneth LaBore toll free at 612-743-9048 or toll free at 1-888-452-6589 or by email at KLaBore@MNnursinghomeneglect.com.

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Free Consultation on Issues of Elder Abuse and Neglect Serving all of Minnesota Toll Free 1-888-452-6589

Theft of Funds from Client at Fair Oaks Lodge in Wadena Minnesota

Written By: Kenneth LaBore | Published On: 19th March 2017 | Category: Financial Exploitation | RSS Feed

Substantiated Financial Exploitation Complaint Against Fair Oaks Lodge

In a report from the Minnesota Department of Health, Dated March 1, 2017, it is alleged that a client at Fair Oaks Lodge in Wadena Minnesota was financially exploited when the Alleged Perpetrator (AP) took three checks from the resident’s checkbook.

Fair Oaks Lodge Cited After Theft From Client

Based on a preponderance of the evidence, financial exploitation occurred when the alleged perpetrator (AP) took three checks from the resident without the permission and used two of the checks to make purchases.

A resident told a facility staff member that a check appeared on the resident’s bank statement that the resident did not write. The check was written at a store for $99.91 The administrator was notified of the fraudulent check and notified the police.

From the resident’s bank statement, the police were able to identify the store where the check was used and contacted the store. The AP was identified on video surveillance in the store. The police further identified that the resident had two additional checks taken.

The AP was interviewed and admitted to taking three checks from the resident. The AP used two of the checks to make purchases. One check was used for purchases in the amount of $99.91. The second check was in the amount of $45.00. The AP stated s/he did not use the third check and threw it away in the garbage.

The police forwarded the case to the prosecuting attorney to be reviewed for potential charges. The facility terminated the AP.

Report Suspected Financial Exploitation – Fair Oaks Lodge

Click Here For Link To Report Abuse To Adult Protection

If you have concerns about financial exploitation or any other form of elder abuse or neglect contact Minnesota Elder Abuse Attorney Kenneth LaBore toll free at 612-743-9048 or toll free at 1-888-452-6589 or by email at KLaBore@MNnursinghomeneglect.com.

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Free Consultation on Issues of Elder Abuse and Neglect Serving all of Minnesota Toll Free 1-888-452-6589

Red Wing Health Center Red Wing Neglect Substantiated

Written By: Kenneth LaBore | Published On: 1st March 2017 | Category: Fall Injuries, Financial Exploitation | RSS Feed

Substantiated Allegation of Neglect at Red Wing Health Center After Resident Suffers From Unstageable Pressure Ulcers Stage III/IV Pressure Sores While at the Facility

Red Wing Health Center Resident Suffers from Pressure Sores

In a report dated January 23, 2017 the Minnesota Department of Health alleged that a resident at Red Wing Health Center in Red Wing was neglected when s/he developed several unstageable pressure ulcers and Stage III/IV pressure ulcers while s/he was at the facility.

Red Wing Health Center Substantiated Neglect Due to Pressure Ulcers

Based on a preponderance of the evidence, neglect occurred when facility staff failed to implement a resident’s designated care plan interventions to heal pressure ulcers and prevent new ulcers from developing. Although facility nurses were aware that the resident was resisting the care plan interventions, facility nurses failed to address any alternative approaches for effective wound management. The resident developed nine new pressure ulcers in four months, including several that became infected and exhibited serious characteristics such as tunneling with depth, exposing muscle and bone. The resident was hospitalized twice in four months with sepsis from wound infections.

The resident was admitted to the facility from another long-term care facility at the end of April 2016. At the time of admission, the resident had two pressure ulcers, an unstageable pressure ulcer on the sacrum (2.7 cm x 1.5 cm x .4 cm) and a Stage II pressure ulcer on the right heel (1.8 cm x 1 cm). The resident has complete paraplegia and multiple sclerosis. The resident is unable to move his/her legs and has limited use of his/her arms. The resident can use an electric wheelchair independently which the resident propels with a joy stick. The resident is alert and oriented.

The resident had an alternating air mattress on his/her bed and a pressure redistributing cushion in the electric wheelchair. Staff were supposed to turn and re-position the resident every two hours and offload the resident hourly per the resident’s care plan, but these interventions were not carried out. There was no planned turning or re-positioning schedule for pressure redistribution and staff did not offer to turn or reposition the resident unless the resident requested it. The resident was expected to offload him/herself by reclining the backrest of the wheelchair, but the frequency of offloading was not monitored by staff. The nursing assistant care guides regarding the resident’s daily care tasks were void of any interventions aimed at wound management, including turning, re-positioning, or offloading the resident. Nurses did not provide adequate oversight of the resident’s daily care by nursing assistants or the resident’s daily needs to heal wounds and prevent new wounds from developing.

Although staff stated that the resident consistently refused wound management interventions, there was no evidence that staff evaluated the inadequacy of interventions of assessed the resident’s individualized needs for alternative interventions. At the end of June 2016, the resident was hospitalized with sepsis due to a sacral wound infection. The sacral pressure ulcer had deteriorated to Stage IV with exposed muscle and Stage II pressure ulcer on the right hip (10 cm in diameter), a Stage II pressure ulcer on the left hip (6 cm in diameter), a Stage II pressure ulcer on the left ischium (2 cm x 2 cm), and a Stage II pressure ulcer on the right ischium (2 cm x 2 cm).

After the resident returned to the facility from the hospital, there was no evidence that staff re-evaluated the resident’s care plan interventions to determine modifications necessary for wound management and skin integrity. There was no evidence that staff initiated structured care interventions, including possible behavioral strategies, to promote wound healing and prevent new skin breakdown.

In mid-September 2016, the resident was hospitalized again with sepsis due to wound infections. On hospital admission, the resident had eleven pressure ulcers. Four of eleven pressure ulcers had grossly deteriorated. The sacral pressure ulcer (12 cm x 10 cm) was unstageable with purulent foul drainage and macerated edges. The left hip pressure ulcer was unstageable (9 cm x 7 cm) with purulent foul drainage. The right hip pressure ulcer had deteriorated to Stage IV (12 cm x 12 cm 1.5 cm) with bone felt at the bottom of the wound bed. The right ischium pressure ulcer had deteriorated to Stage IV (6 cm 5 cm 6 cm) with muscle exposed. The resident also had seven additional pressure ulcers, including Stage III pressure ulcer on the left lateral ankle (3.5 cm x 2.0 cm), five pressure ulcers classified as unstageable on the right posterior shoulder (5.0 cm x 4.0 cm), the right heel (2.0 cm x 2.0 cm x 2.5 cm), the left heel (2.2 cm x 1.2 cm), the left lateral foot (1.0 cm x 1.5 cm), the right medical ankle (1.3 cm 0.7 cm), and a Stage I pressure ulcer on the right lateral ankle. The resident was hospitalized for eight days due to the seriousness of the wounds.

After the resident returned to the facility from the hospital, there was no evidence that staff re-evaluated the resident’s care approaches or made any changes in the resident’s daily care routine. At the time of the onsite investigation, staff were not turning, repositioning, or offloading the resident and the Nurse Manager of the resident’s until did not know how many wounds the resident had, what the condition of the resident’s wounds were, or what the care plan interventions were to heal the resident’s wounds and prevent new wounds from developing.

Red Wing Health Center – Report Abuse and Neglect

Click Here For Link To Report Abuse To Adult Protection

Hold Negligent Providers Like Red Wing Health Center Accountable

Attorney Kenneth LaBore has handled many preventable serious and fatal burn injuries, many due to the failure to follow safety policies and procedures related to oxygen use and smoking. Burns can also happen from scalding water, heaters and electric pads and blankets and other ways.

If you have concerns about pressure sore injuries or any other form of elder abuse or neglect contact Minnesota Elder Abuse Attorney Kenneth LaBore toll free at 612-743-9048 or toll free at 1-888-452-6589 or by email at KLaBore@MNnursinghomeneglect.com.

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Free Consultation on Issues of Elder Abuse and Neglect Serving all of Minnesota Toll Free 1-888-452-6589

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Physical Abuse by Staff Heritage House of Milaca Minnesota

Heritage House of Milaca Complaint Findings for Exploitation

In a report concluded on January 31, 2011, the Minnesota Department of Health cites Heritage House of Milaca for exploitation by staff.

The allegation is abused based on the following: Employee (A), alleged perpetrator (AP) grabbed Client #1’s wrist causing bruising on Client #1’s hand and wrist.

Substantiated Complaint Against Heritage House of Milaca

According to the National Center on Elder Abuse, elder abuse is a growing problem. While we don’t know all of the details about why abuse occurs or how to stop its spread, we do know that help is available for victims. Concerned people, like you, can spot the warning signs of a possible problem, and make a call for help if an elder is in need of assistance.

•Physical Abuse
•Sexual Abuse
•Emotional or Psychological Abuse
•Neglect
•Abandonment
•Financial or Material Exploitation
•Self-neglect

If you have concerns about financial exploitation or any other form of elder abuse or neglect contact Minnesota Elder Abuse Attorney Kenneth LaBore at 612-743-9048 or toll free at 1-888-452-6589 or by email at KLaBore@MNnursinghomeneglect.com.

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Wheelchair Injury Fall Red Wing Health Center Red Wing Minnesota

Red Wing Health Center Cited for Abuse – Exploitation – Drug Diversion

In a report dated February 4, 2016, the Minnesota Department of Health cited Red Wing Health Center alleged that a resident was financially exploited when a staff, alleged perpetrator (AP) took a resident’s pain medication for his/her own personal use.

Based on a preponderance of the evidence financial exploitation did occur when the alleged perpetrator (AP) took 39 oxycodone (a narcotic) tablets from the resident for his/her own personal use over a period of approximately a month.

Red Wing Health Center Red Wing Complaint Findings for Neglect – Falls

In a report concluded on April 26, 2012, the Minnesota Department of Health cites Red Wing Health Center Red Wing for neglect of health care -falls.

The allegation is neglect based on the following: Resident #1 had a fall, with serious injuries, when Employee (J)/Alleged Perpetrator (AP) placed Resident #1 in the wrong wheelchair, which did not have a pressure alarm or self-release seat belt.

If you have concerns about falls, fractures, financial exploitation or any other form of elder abuse or neglect contact Elder Abuse and Neglect Attorney Kenneth LaBore toll free at 1-888-452-6589 or by email at KLaBore@MNnursinghomeneglect.com.

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Lifesprk LLC Cited by the MDH With Financial Exploitation

Written By: Kenneth LaBore | Published On: 28th February 2017 | Category: Financial Exploitation, Medication Administration Mistakes, Medication Drug Error | RSS Feed

Medication Theft Drug Diversion From Lifesprk LLC Edina

Medication Theft Drug Diversion From Client at Lifesprk LLC Edina

Lifesprk LLC – Financially Exploitation Drug Diversion

In a report dated January 9, 2017, the Minnesota Department of Health, it was alleged that a client at Lifesprk LLC Edina was financially exploited when s/he had approximately 50-56 pills missing.

Lifesprk LLC Medication Theft Drug Diversion

Based on a preponderance of evidence, financial exploitation occurred when an unknown staff member took 50-56 tablets of hydrocodone/APAP-5/325 milligrams (mg) from the client.

The client received home care services with medication management according to a service agreement and care plan. The client had a physician’s order for hydrocodone/APAP – 5/325 milligrams (mg) two tablets twice a day, morning and evening. The pharmacy provided the medication as two cards, one labeled morning and another labeled evening. Each contained 60 tablets.

Obervations and interviews with staff conducted during the on-site investigation revealed clients that receive medication management had their medications stored in a locked cabinet in their rooms. In that locked cabinet were two locked tool boxes. One tool box contained a one-month supply of client medications, both scheduled and as-needed, in blister packages. Unlicensed staff have access to the locked cabinet and this first toolbox. Unlicensed staff document medication administration by signing both the medication administration administration record (MAR) and the blister pack when they administer a medication. The second tool box contains surplus medications and is only accessible by licensed staff. Staff indicated that for both boxes, licensed staff only periodically account for the medications.

Interviews with staff revealed a nurse discovered the client’s evening card of hydrocodone/APAP was missing when the nurse when to destroy the medication after the client’s discharge from the facility. Staff said they suspected 50-56 tablets of hydrocodone/APAP-5/325 (mg) belongs to the client were taken by a staff member. The facility was unable to determine an alleged perpetrator, and was unable to determine exactly how many tablets were missing or when the tablets went missing. However, the facility determined that staff members were not following facility policy and procedures regarding medication management.

Observations and document review confirmed that the facility was unable to account for one medication card, which should have contained over 50 tablets of hydrocodone/APAP. However, because the medication supply was not being regularly counted, and because the narcotics count sheets which were present contained other errors in the quantity of tablets, it was not possible to determine when the card went missing.

Law enforcement also conducted an investigation, but were unable to determine who might have taken the medications. The police closed the investigation.

Lifesprk LLC – Report Suspected Abuse and Neglect

Click Here For Link To Report Abuse To Adult Protection

If you have concerns about any form of elder abuse or neglect contact Minnesota Elder Abuse Attorney Kenneth LaBore toll free at 612-743-9048 or toll free at 1-888-452-6589 or by email at KLaBore@MNnursinghomeneglect.com.

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Free Consultation on Issues of Elder Abuse and Neglect Serving all of Minnesota Toll Free 1-888-452-6589

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Theft of Resident’s Credit Cards at Lifesprk LLC in Edina Minnesota

Credit Card Theft From Resident at Lifesprk LLC

In a report from the Minnesota Department of Health dated April 26, 2016, it is alleged that a client at Lifesprk LLC was financially exploited when the alleged perpetrator (AP) used the client’s credit cards for his/her own personal use.

Lifesprk LLC Cited After Theft of Credit Cards

Based on a preponderance of evidence of the evidence financial exploitation did occur when the alleged perpetrator (AP) took two of the client’s credit cards and made several purchases at seven different locations on separate days without the client’s permission totaling $1765.49.

The client received services from the home care provider for medication administration, escorts, activities of daily living, housekeeping, laundry, meals, and transfer assistance. The client was not alert to person, place or time and did not have the ability to leave the facility.

Interviews with staff revealed the comprehensive home care provider was notified by the client’s family of fraudulent charges on the client’s credit cards and noted two of the credit cards were missing from the client’s wallet. The comprehensive home care provider interviewed all staff members and provided care for the client and all staff denied taking the client’s credit cards. The AP did not show up for the interview with the comprehensive home care provider and the AP provided regular services to the client. The comprehensive home care provider notified the police of the missing credit cards and the fraudulent charges.

If you have concerns about medication errors, improper use of medical equipment, falls or any other form of elder abuse or neglect contact Minnesota Elder Abuse Attorney Kenneth LaBore at 612-743-9048 or toll free at 1-888-452-6589 or by email at KLaBore@MNnursinghomeneglect.com.

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Full Circle Senior Living Theft From Dozens of Clients

Written By: Kenneth LaBore | Published On: 26th February 2017 | Category: Financial Exploitation | RSS Feed

Financial Exploitation of 25 of 26 Resident Reviewed at Full Circle Senior Living in Duluth

Full Circle Senior Living Theft From 25 Clients

In a report from the Minnesota Department of Health, dated January 3, 2017, it was alleged that a client Full Circle Senior Living in Duluth was financially exploited when the alleged perpetrator (AP) took the clients’ money.

Full Circle Senior Living Financial Exploitation of 25 Clients

Based on the report, Full Circle Senior Living was investigated an it was determined based on a preponderance of the evidence, financial exploitation occurred when 25 of 26 clients reviewed were financially exploited by the alleged perpetrator (AP) when s/he took the client’s money.

All the clients received comprehensive home care services from the provider.

Inteview with the nurse revealed the provider received complaints from all 26 clients of missing money, beginning in January 2016 and ending June 2016. The provider notified the police each time, along with the Office of Health Facility Complaints. The nurse indicated s/he worked with the police investigating each incident but s/he and the police were unable to determine who the AP was. The nurse said s/he and the police obtained permission from a client to install a hidden camera in the client’s room in June 2016, and planted $120.00 cash in a card in the client’s room, in view of the camera. The nurse said s/he observed the AP on camera take $120 from the card and place the money in his/her pocket. The nurse called the police. The facility eventually installed surveillance cameras throughout the facility but they were not fully operational until August 2016.

Document review of a police report revealed police responded to the facility after the nurse caught the AP on camera taking the planted money from the card in the client’s room. Police interviewed the AP, and the AP admitted to taking money from four clients, in addition to the planted money. The police issued a citation to the AP for misdemeanor theft.

The report continues that: document review, interviews with staff, interviews with clients, and communication with police revealed the client losses totaled $3018.00 between January and June 2016. Document review, interviews with staff, interviews with clients, and interviews with police revealed the AP worked at the facility during the loss time frame for 25 or 26 clients and was the primary suspect for each of the thefts that occurred between January and June 2016.

Full Circle Senior Living – Report Suspected Abuse and Neglect

Click Here For Link To Report Abuse To Adult Protection

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Accra Home Health Duluth Theft

Written By: Kenneth LaBore | Published On: 26th February 2017 | Category: Financial Exploitation | RSS Feed

Theft by a Vulnerable Adult - Accra Home Health Duluth - Financial Exploitation

Theft from a Vulnerable Adult – Accra Home Health Duluth – Financial Exploitation

Accra Home Health Duluth Abuse Theft From Client

In a report dated, February 2, 2017, the Minnesota Department of Health alleged that a client at Accra Home Health Duluth was financially when the alleged perpetrator (AP) took an envelope full of money out of the client’s walker.

Accra Home Health Duluth Substantiated Theft By Staff

Based on a preponderance of the evidence, financial exploitation occurred when the AP took an envelope containing the client’s money, without the client’s knowledge.

The home health agency provided homemaking services, including transportation for the client to shop. The client managed his/her own finances and used a walker to assist with ambulation.

During and interview, the client established the day of the money was the first time the AP provided services for the client. The AP drove the client to a local drug store. The client had an envelope that contained cash to pay for his/her purchases – which totaled about $27.00 – leaving an unknown amount of money in the envelope. The client placed the envelope in a bag attached to the walker. The assisted the client into his/her apartment leaving the walker in the hallway. The AP left, the client remembered the envelope with the cash in the bag attached to the walker. The client checked the bag and the envelope was gone. The client called the drug store and the stores security tape the client putting the envelope attached to the walker. The client contacted the care taker of the apartment building. A camera located in the hallway pointed towards the client’s apartment captured the AP removing the envelope from the bag and placing the envelope in the AP’s coat pocket. The client contacted the local police who investigated the allegation. The client said the police returned the envelope after the AP returned the envelope to the home health agency. The envelope contained $53.00.

During an interview, a manager of the agency established s/he was notified by the police of the alleged financial exploitation. The AP contacted the home health agency after the AP had been contacted by the police. The AP said she discovered the envelope in the backseat of his/her car the following day, and the envelope must have falled out of the client’s bag attached to the walker. Management staff told the AP video from the client’s hallway showed the AP removing the envelope from the client’s walker and placing the envelope in his/her coat pocket. The AP brought a sealed envelope to the home health agency indicating it contained the client’s money. The agency returned the money to police without opening the envelope.

During an interview, the AP denied taking the money from the client, stating the envelope must have fallen out of the bag attached to the client’s walker during the drive. The client sat in the passenger side of the car and the AP placed the walker in the backseat behind the client. The AP said she found the envelope the following day after being contacted by the police. The AP said s/he was checking on the client’s shoes when s/he touched the bag in the hallway. The AP denied taking the envelope with the money.

A police report established the AP removed the client’s white envelope from the bag and put that envelope in the AP’s coat pocket.

Accra Home Health Duluth – Report Abuse and Neglect

Click Here For Link To Report Abuse To Adult Protection

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Free Consultation on Issues of Elder Abuse and Neglect Serving all of Minnesota Toll Free 1-888-452-6589

Augustana HCC of Apple Valley Allegations of Neglect After Resident Fall From Lift

Written By: Kenneth LaBore | Published On: 7th February 2017 | Category: Fall Injuries, Financial Exploitation, Hoyer Lift, Patient Lift | RSS Feed

Fall from Patient Lift Leads to Femur Fracture at Augustana Healthcare Center of Apple Valley

Resident at Augustana HCC Apple Valley Suffers Fractured Femur After Fall From Lift

According to a report from the Minnesota Department of Health, dated January 17, 2017, it is alleged that a client at Augustana HCC of Apple Valley was neglected when the facility staff failed to safely transfer a resident using a lift. The resident had a fall and was hospitalized with a right femur fracture.

Substantiated Neglect Against Augustana HCC Apple Valley After Fall

Based on the preponderance of evidence, neglect occurred when the alleged perpetrator (AP) incorrectly transferred the resident using a standing lift. The resident fell, sustained a right femur fracture and required surgery.

The resident was cognitively intact and able to direct his/her own cares. The resident’s care plan directed staff to transfer the resident with a standing lift and the assistance of one staff. Manufacturer’s instruction for the standing lift indicated leg straps were to be used for resident safety with the standing lift.

Approximately two months prior to the fall, a physical therapist evaluated the resident, because the resident was refusing the use the abdominal harness of the standing lift due to difficulty breathing. The physical therapist educated the resident that all the buckles, abdominal and leg, were to be strapped when using the standing lift and the resident agreed. During the interviews, three staff members indicated the resident refused the leg straps and told staff s/he could stand better without using the leg straps. However, if staff members were firm and told the resident leg straps were required during the transfer, the resident would comply. The facility policy on the standing lift equipment indicated to keep the residents feet on the footplate and secure the shin straps around the resident’s leg and calf area.

The AP was interviewed. On the morning of the fall, the resident put on the call light to use the toilet. The AP entered the resident’s room and placed the resident on the standing lift. The resident refused the leg straps. The AP told the resident the leg straps needed to be applied for safety, but the resident still refused the leg straps. The AP requested assistance from a nurse.

After five minutes, the resident’s need to use the toilet was urgent and there was no response to the call for assistance. The AP transferred the resident to the toilet. After toileting, during the transfer from the standing lift to the wheelchair, the resident’s foot slipped off the platform. The resident slipped down in the lift approximately one foot off the floor and was lowered to the floor.

The resident had pain in his/her right hip and requested an X-ray revealed an incomplete fracture of the mid-right femur. The resident has hospitalized and had hip surgery, which was complicated by acute respiratory failure related to his/her chronic respiratory difficulties. The resident returned to the facility thirteen days later, but was readmitted to the hospital that same day for respiratory distress. The resident returned to the facility four days later on hospice care and died the next day.

The resident’s primary physician was interviewed and explained that the anesthesia from the surgery worsened the resident’s already chronic respiratory conditions.

The death certificate indicated the resident died eighteen days after the fall. The immediate cause of death was listed as complications related to immobility due to the right hip fracture from the fall.

If you have questions about falls from patient lifts or other types of elder abuse call Kenneth LaBore for a free consultation at 612-743-9048 or toll free at 1-888-452-6589 or by email at KLaBore@MNnursinghomeneglect.com.

Augustana HCC of Apple Valley Financial Exploitation By Staff Member

Investigation of Financial Exploitation at Augustana HCC of Apple Valley

According to a report dated November 20, 2015, Augustana HCC of Apple Valley had an allegation that a resident was financially exploited when a staff, alleged perpetrator (AP) made multiple unauthorized charges to resident’s credit card.

Substantiated Exploitation by Staff at Augustana HCC of Apple Valley

Based on a preponderance of evidence financial exploitation occurred, when the alleged perpetrator (AP) took the resident’s credit card, used it to make purchases for his/her own personal use and without the resident’s permission or knowledge.

The resident was admitted to the facility for short term rehabilitation after hospitalization. Review of the resident’s record indicated that the resident was moderately impaired in her/her cognition but was able to make his/her daily decisions and needs known.

Document review and interviews revealed that a police officer reported to the facility staff that the resident had unauthorized charges that were made on her/his credit card while the resident at the facility. Through their investigation the police were able to determine that the unauthorized charges were made over a three day period between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. in Walmart, Cub Foods, and a Shell gas station, all stores located in the Apple Valley area. The video surveillance footage provided by Walmart store showed an individual wearing scrubs using the resident’s credit card to make purchases on one of three different occasions that the resident’s credit card was used in Walmart. The police showed the facility staff the video and facility staff positively identified the individual in the video as AP.

If you have concerns about improper use of medical equipment, falls or any other form of elder abuse or neglect contact Minnesota Elder Abuse Attorney Kenneth LaBore at 612-743-9048 or toll free at 1-888-452-6589 or by email at KLaBore@MNnursinghomeneglect.com.

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Everyday Living Cited with Neglect

Written By: Kenneth LaBore | Published On: 2nd February 2017 | Category: Financial Exploitation, Home Health Care | RSS Feed

Financial Exploitation of Client at Everyday Living When Theft of Gift Card

Everyday Living Alleged Exploitation by Staff

In a report from the Minnesota Department of Health dated, November 23, 2016, it was alleged that a client at Everyday Living in South Saint Paul, was financially exploited when the alleged perpetrator (AP) stole the client’s gift and used it for her own personal use.

Everyday Living Substantiated Theft of Client Gift Cards

Based on a preponderance of evidence, financial exploitation occurred when the alleged perpetrator (AP) used the client’s gift care without permission.

The client received comprehensive home care services from the provider according to a service agreement and care plan.

The client was interviewed and said s/he noticed a gift card s/he recently received from a family member was missing. The client called the family member. The family member called the store where the gift card was issued, and learned the gift card had recently been used at the store. The client and a facility staff member went to the store to see if they could determine who had used the gift card. The client described the AP to an employee at the store, showed the employee a picture of the AP, and the employee identified the AP, as the person who used the client’s gift card. The client said s/he did not give or sell the gift card to the AP.

The family member was interviewed and said s/he recently gave the client a gift card to an area store. The client called and said the gift card was missing, so the family member called the store to see if the gift card had been spent. The family member learned from the store the gift card had been spent recently, and s/he called the client and told the client to get the police involved.

Interview with a staff member revealed the client recently received a gift card from a family member. The next day the client told him/her s/he was missing the gift card. The staff member said the client called the family member and learned the gift card had recently been spent at the store where the gift card was issued. The staff member and the client went to the store. The client described the AP to an employee at the store, showed the employee a picture of the AP, and employee identified the AP as the person who used the client’s gift card.

The police were contacted by the client. The police investigation was forwarded to the city attorney for formal charges against the AP.

The AP was interviewed, and admitted she used the client’s gift card at the store for his/her own personal use.

For more information about how to get accountability for elder abuse and neglect related injuries call Kenneth LaBore for a free consultation at his direct number at 612-743-9048 or toll free at 1-888-452-6589 or by email at KLaBore@MNnursinghomeneglect.com. There is no fee unless a there is a verdict or settlement offer from the wrongdoer.

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Theft of Resident Funds and Medications at Lighthouse at Waconia According to MDH

Written By: Kenneth LaBore | Published On: 31st January 2017 | Category: Financial Exploitation, Medication Administration Mistakes, Medication Drug Error | RSS Feed

Lighthouse at Waconia Substantiated Financial Exploitation and Drug Diversion Allegations

Lighthouse at Waconia Allegations of Exploitation and Drug Diversion

In a report dated January 30, 2014, the Minnesota Department of Health cited Lighthouse at Waconia it was alleged that a staff member, alleged perpetrator (AP) took narcotics from two clients without permission.

Substantiated Complaint of Drug Diversion by Staff of Lighthouse at Waconia

Based on a preponderance of the evidence, financial exploitation is substantiated. The AP took medications belonging to two clients.

The AP was interviewed and state s/he took the medications to relieve back pain. S/he explained that s/he signed out “as needed” narcotic medications, one or two pills at time, as if a client had requested the medications for pain. When new medications arrived from the pharmacy, s/he took the remaining supply of the medication from the narcotic medications box and tore the sheet out of the narcotic tracking book in an effort to avoid detection. The AP admitted to taking narcotic medications from two clients, stating that s/he would take a few pills at a time and then a pack of 23 oxycodone pills. The AP was unsure of how many pills s/he took in total.

Allegation of Abuse by Exploitation at Lighthouse at Waconia

In a report dated January 30, 2014, the Minnesota Department of Health MDH cited Lighthouse at Waconia after allegation that financial exploitation occurred when a staff person, alleged perpetrator (AP) admitted to police that s/he took an ATM card and used it to withdraw money in excess of $6000.00 without the client’s permission.

Substantiated Complaint of Exploitation by Staff at Lighthouse of Waconia

Based on a preponderance of evidence, financial exploitation is substantiated. The alleged perpetrator (AP) admitting to taking the client’s ATM card and withdrawing money without the client’s permission.

The AP state that on one occasion the AP was asked by the client to withdraw money from the client’s account and had given the AP the pin number of the ATM card. The AP then memorized the pin number. The AP state that s/he would take the ATM card out of the client’s purse when the client was not in his/her room during meal time. The AP would then leave the facility to withdraw money from the client’s account removed $300-$400 each time from the client’s account. The AP could not recall how many times s/he had used the client’s ATM card without permission but stated that it was a period of over two or three months. The unauthorized charges totaled $6,578.00

If you have concerns about financial exploitation or any other form of elder abuse or neglect contact Minnesota Elder Abuse Attorney Kenneth LaBore toll free at 1-888-452-6589 or by email at KLaBore@MNnursinghomeneglect.com.

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Sunrise Assisted Living Cited After Theft of Resident Medications

Written By: Kenneth LaBore | Published On: 16th January 2017 | Category: Financial Exploitation | RSS Feed

Drug Diversion Medication Theft at Sunrise Assisted Living of Roseville

Allegations of Medication Theft at Sunrise Assisted Living

In a report dated November 28, 2016, from the Minnesota Department of Health it is alleged that Sunrise Assisted Living in Roseville it is alleged that seven clients were financially exploited when staff, alleged perpetrator (AP), took the client’s medications.

Substantiated Neglect After Medications Being Taken from Residents at Sunrise Assisted Living

Based on a preponderance of evidence, financial exploitation is substantiated. The alleged perpetrator (AP) took pain medications belonging to seven different clients over the course of multiple incidents.

All seven clients received medication administration from the home care provider. Client #1 had a physician’s order for morphine 5 milligrams (mg). Client #2 had a physician’s order for tramadol 50 mg. Client #3 had a physician’s order for hydrocodone/APAP 5/325 mg. Client #4 had a physician’s order for oxycodone 2.5 mg (5 mg, half tablets). Client #5 had a physician’s order for oxycodone 5 mg. Client #6 had a physician’s order for hydrocodone/APAP 5/325 (half tablets). Client #7 had a physician’s order for hydrocodone/APAP 5 325 mg.

Interviews with staff were conducted. A nurse tried to refill the physician’s order for Client #7. The pharmacy called back later and told the nurse that it was too soon to refill the order. The nurse reviewed the facility medication administration records and the original physician’s order and determined Client #7 should have 30 tablets remaining. When checking the narcotic count sheet, the nurse noticed the AP had logged in the narcotic medications. This was unusual because the nurse received the medications from the pharmacy and always logged the medications in after receiving them from the pharmacy. The nurse notified the supervisor.

A review of the pharmacy delivery inventory sheets and the narcotic count book sheets revealed the following missing medications for each client: Client #1 had 30 tablets of morphine 5 mg missing; Client #2 had 30 tablets of tramadol 50 mg missing; Client #3 had 150 tablets of hydrocodone/APAP 5 325 missing; Client #4 had 120 half tablets of oxycodone 2.5 mg (5 mg half tablets) missing; Client #5 had 60 half tablets of oxycodone missing; Client #6 had 90 half tablets of hydrocodone/APAP 5 325 mg missing; and Client #7 had 90 tablets of hydrocodone/acetaminophen 5/325 mg missing.

The AP had falsified signatures, altered count documents, and falsified count inventory numbers and dates for all seven clients. Staff checked the document destruction bins and discovered empty bubble packs for Client #3, Client #4, and Client #5 along with what appeared to be practiced pages of staff signatures. The AP confessed s/he was responsible for all the missing medications to management.

A police report indicated police were notified by the home care provider that medications were missing. The home care provider provided police with documentation detailing the missing medications. The police interviewed the AP, and the AP admitted to taking medications from the clients.

The AP was interviewed and admitted to taking medications from clients.

If you have concerns about medication errors, theft of medication or any other form of elder abuse or neglect contact Minnesota Elder Abuse Attorney Kenneth LaBore at 612-743-9048 or toll free at 1-888-452-6589 or by email at KLaBore@MNnursinghomeneglect.com.

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