A mental health patient attacked 56-year-old Lynne Truxillo the week of April 1. She suffered a torn leg muscle and head injury during the attack but was able to finish her shift. Ms. Truxillo visited the hospital’s emergency room after her shift and was treated and released.
Ms. Truxillo returned to the hospital for care six days later and was admitted to the intensive care unit. She died April 11 from a blood clot in her leg and a pulmonary embolism, according to preliminary autopsy results released April 15.
East Baton Rouge Coroner Beau Clark, MD, on April 16 said that the fatal blood clots were directly connected to the physical altercation.
Editor’s note: This article was updated April 17 at 10:20 a.m.
More articles on clinical leadership and infection control:
Report: Veteran’s leg amputated after VA fails to log home care appointments
ICU healthcare workers have low hand hygiene compliance, study finds
Duodenoscope contamination rates higher than expected, says FDA
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.