People trust nursing homes to provide high-quality care and a safe environment for some of the most vulnerable members of society. When families place their loved ones in the care of these facilities, they expect staff members to treat their loved ones with respect and compassion. Unfortunately, this does not always happen.
If your loved one has experienced dehydration and malnutrition in Philadelphia nursing homes, an experienced nursing home neglect attorney could help you understand your legal options and file a claim for compensation. These serious health risks can lead to long-term consequences, and negligent facilities should be held accountable for the harm they cause.
Dehydration and malnutrition are two common and dangerous forms of neglect in Philadelphia nursing homes. These conditions are often completely preventable with proper care and supervision.
Dehydration occurs when a resident loses more fluids than they take in. This often results in weakness, kidney issues, and even death. Nursing home residents are often at higher risk for dehydration because they may suffer from cognitive issues or conditions that prevent them from feeling thirsty.
Malnutrition refers to the inadequate intake of nutrients, resulting from a lack of food and improper feeding. Malnourished residents may lose weight rapidly, become fatigued, and develop infections more easily because of a weakened immune system.
Family members and caregivers should be aware of the warning signs that may suggest a loved one is suffering from dehydration or malnutrition in a Philadelphia nursing home. These signs often include:
It is important to take these symptoms seriously should they appear in your loved one. Staff in properly managed nursing homes are trained to prevent these conditions with regular monitoring, appropriate medical care, and responsive support. Failure to provide this level of care may indicate a broader pattern of neglect.
Several systemic and individual causes of dehydration and malnutrition occur in Philadelphia nursing homes, including:
In rare cases, residents may be victims of abuse in which they are deliberately denied food or water as a means of punishment. Nobody should suffer in silence because of inadequate nursing home care. Identifying these causes is the first step toward protecting the health and dignity of nursing home residents.
Nursing homes that fail to meet the basic nutritional and hydration needs of a resident can be held legally accountable for negligence. A successful nursing home negligence claim could help cover medical expenses, costs of relocating your loved one to another facility, and even punitive damages.
Each case is unique, and navigating the legal system can feel overwhelming. You do not have to fight for justice on your own. Work with an attorney from Marrone Law Firm, LLC who offers compassion and a steadfast approach to these claims. Call today to hold the responsible parties accountable.