Choosing the Right Care Provider: Why Stories Like This Should Never Happen Again
- Kevin Lambing
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
When you trust a caregiver, nurse, or facility with your loved one, you’re handing them more than just responsibility—you’re giving them your peace of mind. Sadly, stories like the recent case of a Wisconsin nurse amputating a patient’s foot without permission shake that trust to the core.
In 2022, Mary K. Brown, a nurse at Spring Valley Senior Living in Wisconsin, cut off a hospice patient’s frostbitten foot. Not only did she lack authorization, but she allegedly planned to preserve the foot and display it in her family’s taxidermy shop with a sign reading, “Wear your boots, kids.”
Let that sink in.
Brown pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor charge and walked away without serving a day in jail. But the family of the man she amputated will never walk away from the trauma this left behind.
This horrific story leaves families asking:“How do I know if I’m choosing the right care provider for my loved one?”
Let’s talk about it.
1. Do Your Research Before Choosing Any Care Provider
Don’t stop at glossy brochures and friendly tours. Dig deeper.
Check state inspection reports and complaint records.
Look up licensing and disciplinary actions against facilities and individual staff.
Search for online reviews, but read them with discernment. Patterns of neglect or complaints are major red flags.
2. Ask About Policies for Medical Procedures
In Doug McFarland’s case, there was no doctor’s order to amputate his foot. When choosing a care provider, ask:
“What’s the protocol for handling medical emergencies or procedures?”
“Are families always notified before major decisions are made?”
“Who supervises and approves medical interventions?”
You deserve transparency before trusting them with your loved one’s life.
3. Know the Warning Signs of a Bad Facility
Even before a crisis, watch for these signs that a facility might not be safe:
High staff turnover.
Residents who seem neglected, withdrawn, or fearful.
Staff who are dismissive when you ask questions.
A lack of clear communication about your loved one’s care plan.
4. Visit Often and Build Relationships With Care Staff
The more present you are, the less likely your loved one is to fall through the cracks.
Visit unannounced.
Get to know the people caring for your family member.
Make it clear you’re involved and paying attention.
5. Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up
If something feels wrong, it probably is. Report concerns to facility administrators first. If they don’t act, contact state licensing boards or ombudsman programs.
Your loved one’s dignity and safety are worth fighting for.
The Bottom Line
What happened in Wisconsin is disturbing, but it’s also a sobering reminder: Choosing the right care provider isn’t just about comfort—it’s about protecting your loved one from harm.
Take the time to ask hard questions. Do your research. Stay involved because the best defense against situations like this is an informed, proactive family.
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