Dehydration in Clearwater Nursing Homes
Nursing homes are entrusted with the care of society’s most vulnerable population. Unfortunately, many residents in Clearwater nursing homes suffer from neglect at the hands of staff. One of the most common incidents of neglect is dehydration.
Dehydration occurs when there is a loss of fluids that cause disruptions to the body’s normal functions. If not treated promptly, it can be fatal. If you suspect your loved one is dehydrated because the nursing home is failing to properly care for its residents, a lawyer could help you hold the nursing home and its staff accountable for their actions. Do not let your loved ones fall victim to dehydration in Clearwater nursing homes. Contact a dedicated nursing home abuse attorney today.
Signs of Dehydration in Elderly Patients
Nursing home residents are at a higher risk of dehydration because of their age and underlying health conditions, such as failing kidney function. As a result, nursing homes are expected to regularly monitor residents to ensure they are getting enough water and watch for signs of dehydration. While some signs of dehydration in Clearwater nursing homes can be subtle, there are certain tell-tale indicators in the elderly that can signal dehydration, including:
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Confusion
- Weakness
- Dry mouth
- Elevated heart rate
- Low blood pressure
- Reduced urine output
Dehydration frequently leads to hospitalization and further complications so prompt diagnosis and intervention by nursing home staff is critical. When that does not occur and the nursing home fails to ensure their residents are hydrated, a nursing home abuse lawyer in Clearwater could file a cause of action to hold the wrongdoers responsible for the harm suffered.
Nursing Home Neglect Laws in Clearwater
Nursing home residents rely on staff to keep them adequately hydrated. However, dehydration in Clearwater nursing homes, Florida has recognized that its elderly need additional protection and has enacted legislation to safeguard them. Under Chapter 400 of the 2007 Florida Statutes, nursing home residents are guaranteed a set of rights, which includes the right to receive adequate and appropriate health care as well as the right to be free from mental and physical abuse.
In addition, the Adult Protect Services Act, Chapter 415 of the 2007 Florida Statutes is intended to provide for the detection and correction of abuse and neglect of seniors. Under the law, neglect is defined as the failure of a caregiver to provide the necessary care to maintain an individual’s physical and mental health.
The definition also holds caregivers responsible for failing to make a reasonable effort to protect a vulnerable adult from neglect by others. Under the law, nursing home staff who know or have reason to suspect that an individual is being abused or neglected must report such behavior to a central abuse hotline.
How an Attorney Can Help Those Who Suffered Dehydration in Clearwater Nursing Homes
Your loved one should feel safe in their home, and when they are not, someone needs to be held accountable. If your loved one has suffered dehydration in Clearwater nursing homes, you may be able to file a claim to seek damages.
If you want to bring an action against a nursing home for its failure to properly care for your loved one, a seasoned Clearwater nursing home neglect lawyer could help you file a claim to compensate the resident for their damages and help prevent injuries to other residents. Call to discuss your situation.