New mother dies from pulmonary embolism

A 39-YEAR-OLD WOMAN’S SECOND CHILD WAS BORN by cesarean delivery. The mother died the next day from a pulmonary embolism.

ESTATE’S CLAIM Physicians and nurses at the hospital were negligent in failing to recognize the mother’s risk factors for pulmonary embolism, including obesity, being over age 35, and hypertension. They failed to ensure that compression boots were in place and working prior to delivery. Although orders had been given for the woman to walk within 8 hours of delivery, she did not get out of bed and walk for 24 hours after delivery.

DEFENDANTS’ DEFENSE The case was settled before trial.

VERDICT A $3.5 million Illinois settlement was reached.