Seeking Dehydration And Malnutrition Injury Compensation

Call 407.612.6464 • 863.324.3500 today to schedule a confidential consultation with Nursing Home Neglect Attorney, Sanga Turnbull.

According to the American Journal of Nursing, a review of 77 studies found that between 20%-30% of nursing home residents are malnourished while between 47%-67% are at risk of malnourishment. When a nursing home resident is suffering from malnutrition or dehydration, it is either a form of abuse or neglect.

The nursing home staff has a responsibility to provide adequate care of all of the residents and failure to do is unacceptable. If your loved one has shown signs of malnutrition or dehydration, it is time to speak with a qualified Orlando dehydration/malnutrition injury attorney at The Turnbull Law Firm who can help you file a personal injury claim and get your loved the care they deserve.

Signs Of Dehydration Or Malnutrition

Malnutrition could mean a person is not getting an adequate amount of food, but that is not always the case. Sometimes they are calorically getting enough to eat, but the quality and variety of food being eaten does not provide the person with enough nutrients. It is possible for a person to be both overweight and malnourished, which is why it is important to look for other signs in addition to any weight loss. Signs of malnutrition and dehydration include:

• Poor wound healing
• Muscle weakness
• Frequent infections from a weakened immune system
• Dental problems
• Difficulty swallowing
• Depression
• Cognitive problems
• Rapid weight loss
• Extreme thirst
• Dry or ashy skin
• Dark-colored urine
• Headaches
• Muscle cramps
• Lightheadedness or fainting
• Trouble regulating body temperature and more

Factors That Lead To Malnutrition And Dehydration

The Commonwealth Fund reported that one of the problems that can lead to neglect is that certified nursing assistants (CNAs) are frequently asked to support between seven and nine residents with food and drink throughout the day and even more during mealtimes. In addition to understaffing nursing homes, there is also a high turnover rate, which means staff is not always adequately trained to meet the dietary needs of the residents. If a resident is a picky eater or has religious or medical dietary restrictions, they may get enough food but lack specific nutrients. For example, a nursing home resident may eat enough carbohydrates and yet be protein deficient.

Act Today If You Believe Your Loved One Is Malnourished

The health consequences of malnourishment or dehydration for an elderly person can be severe and long-lasting. For instance, if an elderly patient tries to walk when dehydrated or lacking nourishment, they could become lightheaded, faint, fall and break their pelvis. Even if it does not result in an acute injury such as a broken bone, lack of nourishment can lead to irreversible cognitive problems.

If you notice any signs of malnourishment or dehydration in your loved one when they are being cared for by a nursing home, it is important you speak up and seek help from a skilled Orlando malnourishment and dehydration attorney at The Turnbull Law Firm.

Call 407.612.6464 • 863.324.3500 today to speak with an experienced Nursing Home Dehydration And Malnutrition Injury Lawyer who proudly serves Lakeland, Orlando, and throughout the State of Florida.