Nursing homes
Iowa family sues Des Moines nursing home, alleging a resident was dropped from a lift
The estate of a Des Moines nursing home resident is suing, alleging staff dropped her from a mechanical lift in April after years of documented falls and improper transfers, Iowa Capital Dispatch reports.
Key facts
- Iowa Capital Dispatch reported on October 8 that the estate of Lena K.
- Rocha is suing Scottish Rite Park Health Care Center in Des Moines in Polk County District Court.
- The lawsuit claims that on April 29, 2026, employees using a mechanical lift "negligently dropped" her, and that she died afterward.
What happened
Iowa Capital Dispatch reported on October 8 that the estate of Lena K. Rocha is suing Scottish Rite Park Health Care Center in Des Moines in Polk County District Court. The lawsuit claims that on April 29, 2026, employees using a mechanical lift "negligently dropped" her, and that she died afterward.
The lawsuit alleges the home had dropped or failed to properly transfer her on multiple occasions in December 2022, July 2023, January 2024, May 2024 and August 2024, and that her family met with facility leaders several times to discuss preventing it. These are allegations in a lawsuit; the article notes the home has a history of violations related to resident injuries.
What it means for families
Mechanical lifts are common for residents who cannot stand, and using them safely usually takes two trained staff. Families can ask how transfers are done and what happens after any fall.
For example: if your father needs a lift to get out of bed, ask how many staff are required for each transfer, and ask to be told every time a fall or near-fall happens.
What this means in New York: New York nursing homes must report and investigate resident injuries. You can file a complaint with the state Department of Health if you have concerns.
Quick answers
What does the Des Moines nursing home lawsuit allege?
Iowa Capital Dispatch reported on October 8 that the estate of Lena K. Rocha is suing Scottish Rite Park Health Care Center in Des Moines in Polk County District Court. The lawsuit claims that on April 29, 2026, employees using a mechanical lift "negligently dropped" her, and that she died afterward.
What to do this week
- Ask your relative's nursing home how many staff are required for lift transfers and how they are trained.
- Ask to be notified of every fall, and request a care plan meeting after any incident.
- Keep a written record of incidents, dates and who you spoke with.
Sources
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