Professional Negligence Law Reporter

Varna Rae Palmer, who suffered from COPD, was admitted to Dorn VA Medical Center, suffering from shortness of breath. She underwent a CT scan and an EKG; was treated with bronchodilators, steroids, and ventilatory support; and was transferred to the facility’s intensive care unit. The next day, a medication review warned that Palmer was at risk of a major drug-to-drug interaction. She was moved out of the ICU but was not placed on a heart or oxygen saturation monitor.

A nurse making rounds discovered that Palmer’s nasal cannula was out of place. Resuscitation efforts were initiated for Palmer, who was not breathing or responsive. These efforts were unsuccessful. Palmer is survived by her two children.

Palmer’s estate sued the United States, alleging failure to properly monitor and treat Palmer. The plaintiff asserted that Palmer, who died of hypoxic respiratory failure, should have been placed on an oxygen saturation monitor.

The parties settled for $400,000.

Citation: Palmer v. United States, No. 3:20CV03848 (D.S.C. Aug. 16, 2021).

Plaintiff counsel: AAJ members Will Lewis and Brady Thomas, both of Columbia, S.C.