Facts

On Dec. 5, 2005, the plaintiff, a 19-year-old student, was admitted to Vista Del Mar psychiatric hospital in Ventura due to depression. The defendant was his attending psychiatrist. The plaintiff tried to hang himself, but was successful only in cutting off oxygen to his brain.

PLAINTIFF'S CONTENTIONS:
The plaintiff contended that defendant Reyes should have put plaintiff on a constant suicide watch instead of a 15-minute suicide watch.

DEFENDANT'S CONTENTIONS:
The defendant contended that the conduct was reasonable and within the applicable standard of care.

Damages

The plaintiff has a life expectancy ending in December 2014, and is currently receiving custodial care at a costs of $4,000 a month.

Injuries

The plaintiff was unconscious, in a persistent vegetative state due to lack of oxygen to the brain.

Result

Defense verdict.

Other Information

FILING DATE: Feb. 16, 2007.

Deliberation

five hours

Poll

10-2

Length

seven days