Plaintiff files another suit against health care provider

Christopher Bruner, administrator of the estate of Betty Bruner, deceased, is suing Kenneth Hall Regional Hospital for negligence in St. Clair County Circuit Court.

Bruner claims the hospital failed to provide a safe environment, failed to prevent multiple falls and failed to properly monitor Betty Bruner while she was a patient at the East St. Louis hospital from Feb. 2 through Feb. 22, 2005.

Bruner also claims the hospital failed to place Betty Bruner on "fall precautions."

According to the complaint, Betty Bruner fractured her right hip, which required surgery and the placement of a compression screw and a side plate.

In March 2005, Bruner, acting as guardian of the estate of Betty Bruner, filed a three-count lawsuit against Swansea Care Center and Bridgemark Health Care in St. Clair County Circuit Court alleging the defendants were negligent and violated the Nursing Home Care Act.

In the newer suit filed Sept. 15, Bruner is seeking in excess of $100,000 in damages. He claims that as a result of Kenneth Hall Regional Hospital's negligence, Betty Bruner suffered severe and repeated pain and suffering, mental anguish, emotional distress, loss of dignity, became further debiliated and disabled, and had to receive considerable medical care and incurred medical expenses.

In both suits, Bruner is represented by the Rex Carr Law Firm in East St. Louis. Attorney Donna Anderson is a counselor on both cases. Attorney Staci Yandle also represents Bruner in the case against Swansea Care Center.

Bruner is seeking at least $150,000 in damages for injuries Betty received while at Swansea Care Center, according to the lawsuit.

That suit alleges Betty Bruner fell and suffered a fractured hip and laceration to her forehead at Swansea Care Center. She also developed a urinary tract infection which caused pain and suffering, mental anguish and emotional distress.

Swansea Care Center failed to have 24-hour nursing services from enough qualified nursing personnel to meet the total nursing needs of the residents at the care center, the suit claims.

Bruner also claims Betty Bruner lost large sums of money through treating her injuries and illness. Her opportunity to participate in ordinary activities and the ability to enjoy life also was adversely affected