Death of an Iowa Nursing Home Resident Sparks Investigation

A Mason City nursing home resident who sustained multiple injuries died August. The nature of these injuries has been deemed suspicious by doctors, sparking an investigation against the facility where the man lived.

Events Leading Up to the Resident’s Death

In an article by the Iowa Dispatch, the incident reportedly occurred at the Good Shepherd Health Center in Mason City, Iowa. According to this article, state records show a male resident was reported as falling to the floor around 5 p.m., complaining to staff right away that his ribs hurt. The on-call registered nurse did not evaluate the man, nor was the man taken to hospital.

An hour or so later, the man called and told his daughter what happened. The daughter was so concerned by the phone call that she requested he be transported to the hospital for further evaluation.

Why Did the Injuries Appear Suspicious to Doctors?

Diagnostics at the hospital showed the man had multiple fractures in his left shoulder and clavicle and in his vertebrae. An examination of his rib cage revealed 14 different fractures, as well as a punctured and collapsed lung and more.

The doctor who examined the resident said the injuries he sustained were the most severe he had ever seen in a patient following a ground-level fall. The emergency room doctor, who sees a lot of trauma injuries every day, reportedly stated that he had “never seen an injury so severe and it struck him as suspicious…”

Were There Prior Legal Issues at Good Shepherd?

Yes, the facility previously faced scrutiny in a 2016 wrongful-death case. The outcome of that incident resulted a $900,000 judgment against the facility due to similar staffing concerns.

While looking into the death of this man, state inspectors also investigated five other complaints against the facility. They were able to substantiate all five of the complaints.

State inspectors personally observed staff openly disrespecting residents’ families. Violations assessed against the facility included:

• Substandard quality of care
• Medication errors
• Poor treatment of residents
• Insufficient staffing

Staffing Challenges

Good Shepherd currently has a three-star rating for its staffing levels from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). The overall rating at the facility, however, is below average at just two stars.

Despite the current violations, due in part to understaffing, the facility’s CEO publicly opposes implementing new staffing mandates. The facility’s CEO, Ian Stockberger cites financial strain and increased reliance on temporary workers.

Previous Lawsuits Against the Nursing Home

The Good Shepherd has a troubled history. In 2015, a lawsuit filed against Good Shepherd highlighted ongoing care issues. The jury found the facility negligent, leading to a substantial monetary award for the victim’s family. The court’s ruling emphasized the home’s indifference to resident safety and care quality.

 Concerned About a Loved One in an Iowa Nursing Home Call PKSD

If you or a loved one is experiencing neglect or inadequate care in a New Mexico nursing home, it is crucial to seek legal assistance. Our experienced nursing home abuse lawyers in Wisconsin are dedicated to advocating for the rights of injury victims and their families. We have extensive experience managing these cases, with a history of proven results.

An in-person visit is not necessary. Contact our firm today for a free initial case review. You can discuss your situation, get answers to your questions and learn if you may have legal options. We are here to help you.

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