English Oaks citation says patient death preventable

Modesto ,California by By KEN CARLSON

State health authorities have assessed a $100,000 fine against English Oaks Convalescent & Rehabilitation Hospital in Modesto in the death of a 91-year-old patient who choked on food.

The citation charges that English Oaks failed to find out what was wrong with the patient while he was choking, did not provide emergency care and failed to use procedures such as the Heimlich maneuver to try to save Costa.

A physician's order for 'Do Not Resuscitate' does not mean a facility should not attempt a Heimlich maneuver to prevent a choking death."

A state official said the company is appealing the fine.

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