Woman says nursing home was negligent

MOUNDSVILLE - A Marshall County woman says Cameron Nursing and Rehabilitation Center is to blame for the death of her mother.

Betty Jean Gump filed a lawsuit June 21 in Marshall Circuit Court, alleging her mother Beulah McCracken's death on Jan. 15, 2005, was a result of the lack of care she received while at the nursing home.

"The defendant… was negligent or deliberately failed to exercise reasonable care to Beulah Jean McCracken during the time she was under the defendant's care," the complaint says.

It adds that Cameron Nursing and Rehabilitation failed to: Take appropriate action to prevent the development of pressure sores; adequately treat pressure sores; assess and treat pain and prevent unnecessary injuries; provide adequate nutrition; implement preventive measures; practice good infection control techniques; promptly refer her to the care of a doctor with necessary expertise and facilities to treat such conditions; appropriately care for; and provide adequate staffing.

It adds that McCracken suffered pain and suffering prior to her death.

"The statutory beneficiaries of Beulah Jean McCracken have suffered sorrow and mental anguish, including a loss of the solace, society, companionship, comfort, guidance, kindly offices and advice that Beulah Jean McCracken would have provided to them during her lifetime," the complaint says.

Gump is seeking compensatory and punitive damages.

James G. Bordas, Jr., of Wheeling law firm Bordas and Bordas is representing Gump.

Judge Mark Karl has been assigned the case.

Marshall Circuit Court case number 06-C-146