Boca Raton Regional Hospital Sued Over Alleged Nursing Negligence

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Boca Raton Regional Hospital is facing a medical malpractice lawsuit after a patient claims she suffered a perforated rectum and bowel necrosis due to alleged negligence by nursing staff. The lawsuit alleges the nurses administered an enema without properly evaluating the patient's condition, which directly caused the severe injuries requiring emergency surgery and a colostomy.

Why it matters

This case highlights concerns about hospital oversight and training of nursing staff, as well as the potential consequences of administering certain medical procedures without proper medical evaluation. It also raises questions about patient safety protocols and accountability at healthcare facilities.

The details

According to the lawsuit, the incident occurred on December 22, 2023, just two days after the patient underwent orthopedic surgery. The patient was experiencing abdominal distension and had not had a bowel movement, which can indicate an 'ileus' condition where the intestines temporarily lack normal muscle contractions. However, the lawsuit claims the attending nurse practitioner and registered nurse failed to order diagnostic imaging tests to rule out this condition. Instead, they allegedly administered a Fleet enema, which directly caused the severe rectal perforation and bowel necrosis.

• The incident occurred on December 22, 2023, two days after the patient's orthopedic surgery.
• The lawsuit was filed in Palm Beach County Circuit Court in February 2026.

What’s next

The judge will determine if the case can proceed to trial, where the hospital's liability and the extent of the patient's damages will be decided.