Communication Error and Failure to Treat Pulmonary Embolism Leads to Death of Young Husband and Father
Confidential Settlement was Obtained
Dan G. was a 31-year-old husband and father who died of a pulmonary embolism approximately one week after back surgery. Following his surgery, Dan experienced transient symptoms that should have alerted his doctors and nurses to the possibility that he had developed blood clots in the deep veins of his legs (“deep venous thrombosis” or “DVT”). When clots in the deep veins of the legs are not treated, they can break off and travel through the veins to the right side of the heart. From there, the clots can be pumped into the lungs. A clot that is pumped into the lungs in this way is called a “pulmonary embolism.” If the clots are big enough, they can cause cardiac arrest and death.
Dan’s various doctors and nurses each charted a symptom or two of the developing problem. But no one put the pieces together. In fact, each of the defendants took the position in litigation that it was not his or her job to put the pieces together.
The Eisen Law Firm put together all the pieces of the diagnostic puzzle and pressed the position that either someone had to step up and take responsibility, or everyone would be held accountable.
Ultimately, The Eisen Law Firm’s position prevailed, and Dan’s family received a confidential, seven-figure settlement.