State Announces Investigation Of Death At Stocton Nursing Home

Press Release, Aug 15, 2006

 The California Department of Health Services (CDHS) launched an investigation into the death of a resident and the evacuation of all other residents at Beverly Health Care Center in Stockton, State Health Officer Dr. Mark Horton announced today. The resident, whose identity is not being released, was reportedly transferred today from the nursing home to a nearby hospital where he died. The cause of death is not yet known, Horton said. The evacuation reportedly occurred because of high temperatures. Residents were taken to hospitals in the region, Horton said.

"All long-term care facilities have a legal and ethical responsibility to ensure that their residents and clients are protected during summer heat waves," Horton said. "Those who are elderly and in frail health are more susceptible to extreme temperature and dehydration."

With the recent hot weather, staff of the CDHS Licensing and Certification program are monitoring long-term care facilities, contacting them by phone to ensure that they are taking all necessary precautions, and initiating on-site investigations as appropriate. In addition, health facilities are required to notify CDHS of any situation that affects the operation of the facility or presents a threat to the patients or residents’ health and safety.

Last month CDHS issued a letter to all long-term care facilities reminding them that they must have contingency plans in place to deal with either the loss of air conditioning or, in the case when no air conditioning is available, to take measures to ensure patients and residents are kept as cool as possible. Portable fans and other temporary cooling devices should be used when indicated. Health facilities should keep a hydration station readily available to residents, family and staff. Health facility staff should also be alert to adverse changes in patient and resident conditions that may be heat-related.

"Summer heat waves can be dangerous, especially for seniors and other vulnerable people," Horton said. "To protect yourself when temperatures are extremely high, remember to drink plenty of fluid, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing and pace yourself when outside. Monitor those around you who are at a high-risk of heat-related illness such as small children, seniors and people who are ill or on certain medications."