Henrico Doctors’ Hospital in Virginia is under fire for allegations of assault in their neonatal intensive care unit (NICU unit). Several infants suffered fractures in 2023 and then it happened again in 2024. After some investigation, one employee was singled out. In fact, this was not the first time the hospital suspected foul play of this nurse. That same employee was fired as a result of the 2023 incidences and then rehired in 2024! As personal injury attorneys, we are reminded yet again of the critical importance of accountability in places we trust to safeguard our loved ones.
“First do no harm” is considered a fundamental principle of medical ethics often associated with the Hippocratic Oath. Hospitals, nursing homes, daycare facilities, and similar institutions have a heightened duty to ensure the safety of their most vulnerable populations. When allegations of harm arise, robust investigations and proactive measures are essential. Reports suggest this employee was allowed to return to work despite prior suspicions of similar abuse. If these allegations are true, the hospital’s apparent failure to act could amount to gross negligence.
Negligence is not just about what someone did but also about what they failed to do. If a facility or organization overlooks warning signs, they can be held responsible for the resulting harm. “Failure to act” is a common thread in many personal injury cases, from workplace accidents to product liability.
For families in this devastating situation or situation like this, the path forward may feel overwhelming with questions about accountability and legal recourse. And often the fight for accountability is about more than compensation; it’s about demanding a higher standard of care so others will never have to endure the same pain. Bringing forth a personal injury case against hospitals, or other intuitions of care, can ultimately protect others by compelling systemic change. This highlights the importance of pursuing justice not just for individual victims but for the greater good.
How long do you have to bring a suit? Understandably, filing a personal injury suit may be the last thing on parent’s mind after a child is injured. However, in Virginia, extra time and consideration is allowed for cases involving minors. While most personal injury cases in Virginia have a 2-year statute of limitations from the date of the injury to bring a suit, minors (infant injuries) are treated differently. Cases that involve minors can be brought to suit up to the child’s 20th birthday, 2 years after they turn 18. In cases like the one above, sometimes clear negligence isn’t brought to light until other cases come forward. Armed with this new information, even families affected years ago still have recourse to move forward with a suit should they choose to.
At Curcio Law, we are committed to fighting for justice and advocating for accountability. If you or someone you know has been impacted by similar events, we are here to listen, guide, and help you take the next step toward healing.
You can read the full 12 On Your Side article here
