Dehydration is a significant health risk, for senior citizens residing in nursing homes. The health and well-being of residents can suffer if enough fluids are not provided to them. Speak with a lawyer and click here if you have a loved one who experiences dehydration in a nursing home; they could be eligible for compensation.
Identifying the signs of dehydration in nursing home facilities
When carers at nursing homes fail to provide their residents with water to be adequately hydrated, it is known as dehydration neglect. This may occur as a result of any number of negligent factors. Ignorance of the significance of hydration for senior citizens is not an excuse. Neglecting hydration can have a negative impact on a resident’s health. This can lead to serious health complications and might possibly be fatal.
Awareness and careful observation are needed to recognize the signs of dehydration neglect. Typical warning signs to be aware of include:
- Dry lips and mouth: Dehydration may be the root cause of a resident’s frequent complaints of dry lips or a dry mouth.
- Dark urine: This is an apparent sign of dehydration.
- Decreased urine production: Dehydration may be suspected if a person is not urinating. Lethargy and confusion: Dehydrated People may have feelings of fatigue, weakness, and confusion. If a resident exhibits these signs, it could be a sign of neglect.
- Sunken eyes or cheeks: The lack of fluid in a dehydrated person’s body may result in sunken eyes or cheeks.
In the setting of a nursing home, dehydration and malnutrition often coincide.
Between 1999 and 2002, malnutrition and dehydration caused the deaths of 1,400 residents. in nursing homes. When dehydration is common in elderly people, there are consequence of serious illnesses.
Elderly people who are dehydrated can suffer the following complications:
- Seizures. Dehydration in the elderly may trigger tonic-clonic seizures and loss of consciousness.
- Brain swelling. Dehydration, can cause brain cells to retain excess fluid. This could result in brain damage and cell rupture.
Protections and Legal Implications
Patients‘ hydration in nursing homes is important. Neglecting these needs is a severe offense that will result in stiff legal penalties. The following are potential legal implications:
- Registering complaints with regulatory bodies.
- Bringing legal actions for carelessness or elder abuse.
- Involving law enforcement if there is a possibility of criminal negligence.
Singh is an experienced spiritual writer and the resident author at Guruvanee.com. With a deep passion for exploring the mystical aspects of life, Singh delves into various spiritual traditions, philosophies, and practices to inspire readers on their spiritual journeys.