Uncovering the Truth, Seeking Justice: St. Clair Memorial Hospital Negligence

For years, the Ainsman Levine, LLC team has demonstrated a willingness to take on high-profile legal cases against major institutions, including healthcare organizations such as St. Clair Memorial Hospital.

In one of the firm’s most recent negligence cases, attorneys Richard C. Levine and Brandon Keller represent Mary Lu Lijewski, who suffered severe injuries while at the hospital for post-surgical recovery. Here is her story.

What Happened?

On August 4, 2023, St. Clair Memorial Hospital staff admitted Lijewski to the facility for left leg pain. She underwent emergency surgery that same night.

As part of the post-surgical care process, medical staff administered narcotic pain medications to Lijewski and also outfitted her with a catheter.

After the catheter was removed on August 5, the staff failed to conduct a post-surgical risk assessment, which is standard practice for patients who may be impaired due to the effects of pain medications.

On August 6, Lijewski attempted to leave her bed in the middle of the night and, ultimately, fell. During the incident, she suffered anemia due to severe blood loss and a full skin-thickness laceration, as well as several other injuries. 

The Fight for Justice

Following the incident, Lijewski and her husband, Francis Lijewski, met with Ainsman Levine, LLC. With the assistance of Mr. Levine and Mr. Keller, they filed a suit on May 20, 2024, with the Court of Common Pleas of Allegheny County, Pennsylvania.

The couple is seeking damages for medical expenses, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and physical pain and suffering. Additionally, Francis Lijewski is seeking damages for additional expenses and loss of consortium due to his wife’s injuries.

In the months leading up to the filing, the Ainsman Levine, LLC legal team has been working tirelessly to build a strong case and support Lijewski’s fight for justice.

A Long History of Negligence

Unfortunately, the incident involving the Lijewskis isn’t the first time someone has suffered severe injuries due to negligent behavior at St. Clair Memorial Hospital.

Over the years, there have been numerous allegations of malpractice, negligence, and other shortcomings. A 1984 incident involved medical malpractice claims that led to the death of a patient.

In a more recent 2014 incident, a pulmonologist working at St. Clair Memorial Hospital, as well as several other healthcare professionals, failed to properly monitor a patient. Ultimately, the patient died, and his estate was awarded $800,000 as part of a jury verdict.

How Ainsman Levine, LLC Goes Above and Beyond for Clients

As the fight for justice rages on, the Ainsman Levine team will continue to stand behind client Mary Lu Lijewski and her family. The legal team has an extensive track record of success and a stellar reputation among past clients, thanks to each attorney’s unwavering commitment to justice.

Choosing a reputable lawyer is particularly important when taking on a major institution such as St. Clair Memorial Hospital. If you or a loved one has been injured, partnering with an experienced personal injury attorney can increase your odds of obtaining a just outcome.