GRETNA – Family of a woman who died after allegedly being improperly diagnosed with a hernia when she was really suffering a heart attack are suing a local hospital.
John Wright, Cynthia Blanchard Gray, individually and on behalf of Patricia Blanchard, deceased, Louis Blanchard, deceased, and the estate of Louis Blanchard filed suit against Jefferson Parish Hospital District #2 and Jefferson General Hospital in the 24th Judicial District Court on Sept. 19.
The plaintiffs claim that on Feb. 20, 2010 Patricia Blanchard awoke her husband Louis complaining of severe chest pains and he subsequently called 911.
Shortly after the emergency call the plaintiffs allege an emergency medical services unit showed up at the home but the technicians did not bring their equipment into the home and when Patricia told them she was experiencing chest pain they told her she had a hiatal hernia.
Patricia decided to return to her bed instead of going to the hospital where they were told by the emergency personal that the wait in the emergency room was estimated to be one to one and half hours, the suit claims. The plaintiffs assert that hours later Patricia was still complaining of pain and began getting nauseated at which time Louis took her to the hospital where she was diagnosed with having had a heart attack. Six days later Patricia died, which the plaintiffs claim is due to inaction by the defendants.
The defendants are accused of failing to take vital signs, failing to perform a proper assessment of the deceased’s condition, failing to comply with protocol, failing to have deceased of her husband sign a document reflecting refusal of services and transport and failing to refrain from making of suggesting a diagnosis of the deceased’s chest pain.
An unspecified amount in damages is sought for wrongful death, survival action for physical pain suffering, mental suffering, medical expenses, funeral expenses, fear of impending death, loss of enjoyment of life and loss of a parent.
The plaintiff is represented by Thomas A. Gennusa II of Metairie-based Gennusa, Piacun & Ruli.
The case has been assigned to Division I Judge Nancy A. Miller.
Case no. 731-193.
Family of woman who died from heart attack six days after being told by paramedics she had hernia sues
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