Dehydration in Nursing Homes
North Carolina Nursing Home Neglect Lawyers
Similar to malnutrition, dehydration is one of the most common signs of nursing home abuse and/or neglect. While nursing homes are required to provide their clients with proper and adequate care, this is not always what occurs. Unfortunately, in many situations, these facilities fail to care for their patients. This is often caused by a lack of staff, budget constraints, or even maliciously abusive staff members.
If you have noticed that your elderly loved one is severely and/or frequently dehydrated despite being under the care and supposed supervision of a nursing home, reach out to Lanier Law Group. Our North Carolina nursing home negligence lawyers can help you determine if you may be entitled to financial compensation and, if so, can begin building a case aimed at securing maximum financial compensation.
The Dangers of Dehydration
Dehydration is dangerous for anyone but particularly the elderly, as they tend to suffer from more physical conditions and illnesses that can make dehydration a matter of life or death. Dehydration occurs when an individual does not have the fluids they require. This can result from simply not drinking as much as they should or from medical issues that cause them to lose fluids. Regardless, it is the nursing home’s responsibility to care for its residents and look after their well-being. If it fails to do so and a resident suffers from dehydration, the family of the victim could have grounds to seek legal recourse and could fight for financial compensation.
Symptoms of Dehydration
Some of the signs of dehydration are fairly obvious, but others are less so. Knowing all of the symptoms of dehydration can allow you to be a better advocate for your loved one.
Some of the most common signs of dehydration include:
- Increased thirst/frequently requesting water or liquids
- Decreased urination
- Urine that is very yellow in color
- Dry mouth
- Dry or irritated skin
- Fatigue and lethargy
- Headache
- Dizziness and/or lightheadedness
- Confusion
- Low blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
- Fever
- Signs of shock
If left unaddressed, dehydration can be life-threatening and may even ultimately prove fatal. It is absolutely critical that you seek medical attention for your loved one if he or she is showing any signs of severe dehydration.
Protecting Nursing Home Abuse Victims throughout North Carolina
At Lanier Law Group, we have extensive experience handling nursing home abuse and neglect claims. We know the signs to look out for, as well as the steps that must be taken to hold the negligent parties liable for any damages that were suffered.
By working with an experienced North Carolina nursing home abuse lawyer from our firm, you will be able to breathe easier knowing that we will do everything we can to help you protect the rights of your loved one. With in-depth knowledge of personal injury law, we have what it takes to handle even the most complex of cases. Call us today to learn more.
