San Antonio Nursing Home Neglect Attorney
When a resident enters a nursing home, it is the obligation of the nursing home to ensure that adequate nutrition and hydration is administered to every individual. Sometimes a nursing home can be negligent in distributing or surveying the appropriate amount of food and water. If that happens, malnutrition and/or dehydration can ensue.
Malnutrition is when the human body is deprived or depleted of necessary vitamins and minerals by not receiving a sufficient amount of food. Dehydration is when a person is deprived of essential fluids.
The elderly have a propensity to unintentionally deny themselves food, especially as their mental and physical capacity diminishes. It is the responsibility of the nursing home to supervise the intake of their food and liquids. If they are not monitored, it could bear a serious or deadly consequence. Many nursing homes are notorious for:
- Failing to maintain sufficient food and fluids
- Failing to provide adequate nursing home staff to properly feed residents and monitor food and fluid intake
- Failing to document the notations of food and fluid intake
- Failing to accurately evaluate the residents nutritional needs, per care plan
- Failing to follow the care plan
- Failing to supervise and educate staff about the nutritional needs of the residents
Symptoms of Dehydration and Malnutrition
- Rapid weight loss
- Disorientation or confusion
- Mouth ulcers and cracks around the lips
- Dry skin
- Sunken eyes
If any of these symptoms are present, take action immediately. If left untreated, it could lead to fractures from falls, bedsores, urinary tract infections, pneumonia, infections, anemia and death.
Not providing a resident with enough food or water to maintain a healthy life is nursing home abuse. If a friend or loved one has endured dehydration or malnutrition complications, seek a skillful attorney. Call me day or night at 210-227-1888. Initial consultations are free and confidential.