Patient Files Lawsuit Over Severe Bedsores at The Villages Recovery Hospital

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A patient named Stanley Varesi has filed a lawsuit against Select Specialty Hospital - The Villages, claiming the facility's staff failed to properly assess, document, and prevent the development of severe pressure wounds during his stay. The complaint alleges Varesi arrived without any existing bedsores but developed them due to inadequate care, including the failure to reposition him every two hours as standard practice. The case highlights the persistent problem of hospital-acquired pressure injuries and the financial and legal implications for healthcare facilities.

Why it matters

Hospital-acquired pressure injuries, or bedsores, can have a significant impact on a patient's quality of life and lead to prolonged hospital stays, increased healthcare costs, and even mortality. This case underscores the importance of proper skin assessment, preventative care, and adherence to standard protocols to avoid these preventable complications.

The details

According to the lawsuit, Varesi was admitted to Select Specialty Hospital on September 5, 2023, for supportive care and rehabilitation following a motor vehicle accident. The complaint alleges that during his stay, Varesi developed pressure wounds on both his right and left gluteal areas due to the hospital staff's failure to adequately assess and document skin breakdown, as well as their failure to provide preventative care for a patient identified as being at risk for pressure injuries. The core allegation is the failure to reposition Varesi every two hours, a standard practice designed to prevent bedsores.

• Varesi was admitted to Select Specialty Hospital on September 5, 2023.
• Varesi was discharged to Evergreen Woods Health and Rehab Center on October 13, 2023.

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on whether or not to allow Stanley Varesi's lawsuit to proceed.