State probe finds Duluth facility's neglect allowed resident to drink cleaning chemical

The facility failed to implement safety precautions, the report said


The Minnesota Health Department ruled that operators of Westwood of Duluth senior facility  were negligent when a 70-year-old man inadvertently poisoned himself and died on Feb. 19, according to an article on the Star Tribune website.

A resident at a the senior care apartment complex, who was known for rummaging around for food and drink, downed a cleaning chemical that eventually  killed him three days later.

According to details of the state death investigation released Tuesday, “The facility failed to implement safety precautions” knowing that Nelson “had a history of climbing over the kitchen gate [and] failed to otherwise secure chemical cleaners.”

In response to the death, Westwood staff removed chemicals from under the kitchen sink and put locks on all cabinets, the report said.

Read the article.



May 16, 2019


Topic Area: Safety


Recent Posts

Designing a Home Away from Home

Ronald McDonald House Atlanta balances the familiarity of home with the demands of a high-use facility serving families of children receiving medical care.


Stephens County Hospital Becoming Part of Wellstar Health System

The transaction is expected to be completed toward the end of 2026, pending the conclusion of regulatory approvals.


Grafton City Hospital Joins Vandalia Health

The transition follows approval from the West Virginia Health Care Authority and continues a longstanding partnership between the organizations.


Protecting Patients from C. auris Through Bed and Mattress Safety

Managers face an urgent question: What happens when a colonized patient returns to a contaminated mattress?


Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center Tops Off New Acute Care Tower

The new acute care tower, designed by FCA, will enhance the hospital’s ability to serve patients by incorporating facilities and expanding its range of services.


 
 


FREE Newsletter Signup Form

News & Updates | Webcast Alerts
Building Technologies | & More!

 
 
 


All fields are required. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

 
 
 
 

Healthcare Facilities Today membership includes free email newsletters from our facility-industry brands.

Facebook   Twitter   LinkedIn   Posts

Copyright © 2023 TradePress. All rights reserved.