Ryman responds to civil action, strenuously ­denying any wrongdoing

A Wheelers Hill retirement village being sued after a resident died from a fall says allegations the unit was understaffed are “demonstrably false”.

Adam and Johannes Megens have launched civil action against Ryman Aged Care. Picture: Wayne Taylor

A Melbourne nursing home being sued after a resident died from a fall says a claim of negligence is “completely baseless”.

The Herald Sun last month revealed two family members of Lena Megens, 92, had launched civil action against Ryman Aged Care after the great-grandmother died following a fall at Weary Dunlop Retirement Village in Wheelers Hill.

In documents filed in the County Court, Ms Megens’ husband John, 92, and their grandson Adam claimed Ryman failed to properly staff its dementia care unit and left Ms Megens unsupervised.

But Ryman strenuously ­denies wrongdoing, saying ­allegations the unit was understaffed were “demonstrably false” and carers immediately came to Ms Megens’ aid.

“A registered nurse checked her vital signs, which were normal,” a spokesman said.

“She had suffered a small skin tear on her elbow and hand, but had no apparent injury to her head at that time.”

Ryman said on the day of Ms Megens’ fall there were 10 residents in the unit, which was staffed by three carers, a registered nurse and a unit co-ordinator.

Ms Megens’ family said there was a three-hour delay between her accidental fall and her being taken to hospital.

But Ryman said it took the advice of Ms Megens’ doctor, who instructed staff to monitor her condition and to call an ambulance if it deteriorated.

The aged-care operator added Ms Megens’ daughter, who was her designated next-of-kin, was notified and supported the GP’s advice.

“When Lena became unresponsive later that afternoon her carers immediately called an ambulance and she was transferred to hospital,” the spokesman said.

Ms Megens had suffered catastrophic brain injuries and died in hospital four days later. Ryman said staff took every reasonable step to ensure Ms Megens’ wellbeing, adding they were “surprised” when informed by a family member they faced legal action unless they agreed to compensation.

“We welcome public scrutiny but making large financial settlements to make untrue ­allegations go away would be entirely at odds with the principles our company was founded on 40 years ago,” the spokesman said.

“The Weary Dunlop care team are an outstanding team of kind, dedicated professionals and we chose to stand by them 100 per cent.

“They provided excellent care and support; the allegations are completely baseless.”

The spokesman said Mr Megens continued to live as an independent resident at Weary Dunlop and was a valued member of its community.

The coroners court is investigating Ms Megens’ death but an inquest date is yet to be set.