Professional Negligence Law Reporter

Doe, 74, went to an ER, suffering from worsening shortness of breath on exertion. He was admitted to the ICU with a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation, hypotension, heart failure, cardiogenic shock, and acute pulmonary edema. Doe’s treating physician allegedly ordered that he receive Heparin infusions as part of a protocol to prevent blood clots and a potential stroke.

Six days later, Doe complained of significant pain and weakness in his right lower extremity. A CT scan performed the next day revealed a retroperitoneal hematoma. Doe was then diagnosed as having sustained hematoma-induced femoral neuropathy, which has resulted in neurological deficits and lower extremity weakness. He now relies on a cane to walk.

Doe sued undisclosed defendants, alleging that treating nurses and hospital lab personnel had failed to follow the Heparin protocol, which led to periods of significant over-anticoagulation.

The parties settled at mediation for $1.25 million.

Citation: Doe v. Roe, Undisclosed Dkt. No. (Va. Confidential Ct. July 14, 2025).

Plaintiff counsel: AAJ member David J. Pierce, Virginia Beach, Va.