Professional Negligence Law Reporter

Susan Baldwin, who was a fall risk, was admitted to Pennsburg Manor. Just over three months later, she was transferred to Haven Behavioral Hospital of Philadelphia. At the time of her admission, she was documented as having no skin wounds and being at high risk for falls.

Baldwin fell three times within 24 hours at Haven Behavioral Hospital. She was treated at another facility and readmitted to Haven, where it was noted that she had an open wound on her buttock. Two days later, she fell again, suffering a fractured fibula and a skin tear on her left hand. The next month, during a readmission to Pennsburg Manor, she was diagnosed with skin deterioration on her buttock. Pressure wounds on her heels were noted approximately one month later.

Baldwin’s health deteriorated, and she died within the month. She is survived by her daughter.

Baldwin’s estate sued 530 Macoby Street Operations LLC, Pennsburg Manor’s business entity, alleging failure to adopt protocols for pressure ulcer prevention, failure to provide appropriate wound care, and failure to implement an individualized care plan. Suit also named Haven Behavioral Healthcare, Inc., alleging failure to prevent pressure sore formation, failure to adopt protocols for fall prevention, insufficient monitoring, and failure to assess Baldwin’s fall risk.

The parties settled for $170,000.

Citation: Summerfelt v. 530 Macoby Street Ops. LLC, No. 190401849 (Pa. Ct. Com. Pl. Phila. Cnty. May 10, 2023).

Plaintiff counsel: Christopher J. Culleton and Larissa Staszkiw, both of Newtown, Pa.