18 Jul ADDRESSING MALNUTRITION AND DEHYDRATION IN NURSING HOME PATIENTS
Posted By Gruenberg Kelly Della 18-Jul-2019
A good nursing home will provide their patients with more than medical care — many people who live in elder care facilities are there because they need assistance with everyday tasks, including moving around, hygiene, and social interaction. One area of care that nursing homes must address is providing nutritious meals and sufficient hydration to their patients. Facilities that fail to fulfill this responsibility are negligent, and could be legally responsible for their inadequacies in care.
The Signs of Malnutrition and Dehydration
Healthy foods and water are the fuel that helps our bodies function properly. Quality nutrition is essential for anyone who wants to live a healthy life, and is especially crucial for nursing home patients. Elderly people are more sensitive to the negative effects an unhealthy diet can cause, and many people who live in nursing homes have medical conditions that require specialized dietary care.
If you observe any of the following symptoms in a nursing home patient, malnutrition and/or dehydration could be the cause:
- Weight loss
- Muscle weakness
- Fatigue
- Worsening of medical conditions
- Vision problems
- Sores and infections
Responding to Suspicions of Nursing Home Neglect
Unexplained medical issues, changes in behavior, and physical ailments in a nursing home patient could be signs that the individual is a victim of abuse and neglect. If you observe any symptoms of mistreatment in a member of your family who lives in a nursing home, get them to safety immediately. Helping them recover from the effects of nursing home abuse and neglect is the most important thing to do. Once they are safe, contact us — our firm represents individuals and families who have suffered because of the actions of negligent nursing home staff.
Schedule a free case evaluation with our attorneys to discover your options. Send us a message or call (888) 305-6372 to reach our team.