Dehydration is common in nursing homes. Some estimates of the prevalence of dehydration among elderly patients place the risk as high as 90 percent. Whether from issues involving dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), general health concerns that affect the absorption of nutrients, or any of the other dozens of causes, the nursing home population is full of dehydrated residents.
While there are natural or health-related causes of dehydration, it can also be caused by abuse or neglect by caregivers. If you suspect that your aging loved one has experienced severe dehydration in a Connecticut nursing home, let us help you hold them accountable for their actions. The seasoned nursing home abuse lawyers at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC have over 100 years of combined experience advocating for the rights and compensation of aging Connecticut residents.
Dehydration can manifest in various ways, and mild to moderate levels are often hard to recognize. If you’re concerned about the level of care that your loved one is receiving in a Connecticut nursing home and suspect negligence or abuse is causing dehydration, the following symptoms could be warning signs:
Dehydration can also predispose nursing home residents to serious complications, like infections and falls.
Again, dehydration is sometimes an unfortunate side-effect of aging. Older bodies tend to have less water stored in them than younger bodies, and kidney function also plays a role in hydration. As we age, dehydration becomes a common issue to be aware of. The prevalence of this condition among the aging population means that nursing home staff should be aware of the possibility of dehydration and look for signs and symptoms.
When a resident’s caregivers fail to prevent or protect them from the damaging impact of dehydration, a claim for damages may be the only way for the injured patient to move forward and receive the care they need. Damages can include medical bills associated with the care necessary to treat the dehydration and related injuries, as well as most other costs that were incurred as a result of dehydration.
If you would like personalized guidance on what types of damages you or your loved one may be able to recover, contact D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC. Our extensive experience and in-depth understanding of Connecticut nursing home and personal injury laws means that you can count on us to help you hold caregivers accountable.
Residents are protected by a host of federal and state regulations that require nursing homes to adhere to certain standards and requirements. There are staffing policies, standards for quality care, and requirements to prevent accidents, among many other rules and laws about the operation of healthcare facilities. Residents also have rights, including:
If you believe your loved one’s care providers have caused their dehydration, contact the nursing home dehydration lawyers at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC today to schedule a free consultation. We stand up for those experiencing dehydration in Connecticut nursing homes.