A 71-year-old diabetic man was admitted to a skilled nursing facility following a brief hospitalization. He had a medical history significant for gout, diabetic neuropathy, and a prior amputation of his right great toe. At the time of admission, he had no arterial or venous ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, or other open wounds.
Despite his known high-risk condition, the facility failed to provide appropriate monitoring, preventative care, and treatment necessary to protect him from diabetic ulceration and infection. As a result of this neglect, he developed osteomyelitis in his left great toe, ultimately requiring amputation. The infection subsequently spread to the second and third metatarsals, leading to additional amputations and permanent injury. Case resolved for $475,000.