Nurse Wins Battle: LA County Settles Shocking Sexual Harassment and Retaliation Lawsuit

Edna Yarashevich, a nurse at Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, has tentatively settled her sexual harassment and whistleblower lawsuit against the hospital. The lawsuit, filed in Los Angeles Superior Court, alleged that Yarashevich faced retaliation when she complained to a managing nurse about a doctor's inappropriate behavior.

Allegations of Persistent Sexual Harassment

The lawsuit, which has now reached a conditional settlement, alleged that Yarashevich endured months of sexual harassment from her supervisor, Dr. Sebo Amirkhanian, a doctor at the rehabilitation center. The details of the harassment were not fully disclosed, but the persistence and severity of the alleged behavior were significant enough to prompt legal action. Dr. Amirkhanian made news headlines last year as LA county's highest paid official.

Rancho Los Amigos National Rehabilitation Center, located in Downey, California, is a major hospital serving people with disabilities. The center has faced legal challenges in the past, including a successful fight against its closure led by disability rights advocates.

One of the most troubling aspects of this case was the reported response when Yarashevich attempted to report the harassment. According to the lawsuit, when she complained to a managing nurse about the doctor's behavior, she was dismissively told, "Oh, he is just having his PMS." This response trivializes the serious nature of sexual harassment and demonstrates a lack of proper protocols for handling such complaints in a healthcare setting.

Retaliation and Workplace Isolation

Following her complaints, Yarashevich claims she faced retaliation, a common fear that often prevents employees from reporting misconduct. The lawsuit stated that she was subjected to multiple reassignments within the facility, which left her feeling isolated. This alleged retaliation not only affected Yarashevich's work environment but potentially her career progression and professional relationships.

Such actions, if proven, would constitute a violation of whistleblower protection laws, which are designed to shield employees who report misconduct from retaliatory actions by their employers.

Legal Proceedings and County's Response

Throughout the legal proceedings, Los Angeles County maintained its innocence, denying the allegations in court filings. The county's defense strategy included citing the statute of limitations and claiming immunity. These legal defenses are common in such cases and often serve to protect public institutions from liability.

However, the decision to settle suggests that both parties found merit in avoiding a prolonged legal battle. Settlements in such cases can often be a way for institutions to address issues without admitting fault, while still providing some form of redress to the complainant.

Terms of Settlement and Future Implications

The terms of the settlement between Yarashevich, Los Angeles County, and the involved doctor have not been disclosed publicly. This confidentiality is typical in such agreements and likely part of the settlement conditions. A request for dismissal of the lawsuit is expected by April 1, 2025.

It remains unclear whether the settlement will require approval from the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors. Such approval is often necessary for settlements involving public entities and can add an additional layer of scrutiny to the agreement.

🤔Nurses, what do you think about this whistleblower lawsuit? Share your thoughts in the discussion forum!