Neglect Behind Closed Doors: The Death of Denis Fleurantin and the Lawsuit That Followed

On April 6, 2020, Krystal Bay Nursing and Rehabilitation admitted Denis Fleurantin following a hemorrhagic stroke. Hollywood Memorial Hospital transferred him after stabilizing his condition and issuing clear medical orders. Doctors directed the facility to administer continuous oxygen, provide regular suctioning, conduct chest X-rays, and arrange a cardiology consult. Denis arrived alert but completely dependent on skilled nursing care. Although he tested negative for COVID-19, staff placed him in respiratory isolation. His wife, Marie Fleurantin, and daughter, Nadine, attempted to contact him through Zoom, but the facility blocked or delayed communication.

Orders Ignored, Signs Missed

Krystal Bay staff failed to follow the doctor’s instructions. They did not document whether Denis received oxygen or any of the required diagnostics. No records showed chest X-rays were taken, and the facility never scheduled a cardiology consult. As his condition declined, nursing notes remained incomplete. During a Zoom call on April 7, Nadine noticed her father’s mouth filled with secretions. She alerted staff, but no one responded. Denis struggled to breathe. Staff failed to suction his airway or provide critical assessments. The facility ignored clear signs of respiratory distress.

Help Arrived Too Late

In the early hours of April 8, 2020, nursing staff finally called 911. At 1:58 a.m., Miami-Dade Fire Rescue arrived at Krystal Bay. They found Denis in respiratory failure, burning with a 105-degree fever, and gasping with an oxygen level of 70%. His airway was blocked with vomit and fluids. Instead of assisting, staff walked out of the room. Paramedics reported that nurses refused t