Dehydration and Malnutrition in Los Angeles Nursing Homes

Families often turn to Los Angeles nursing homes when they do not have adequate time or resources to properly care for aging loved ones. These facilities are equipped with trained staff members and medical resources to provide proper care. However, Los Angeles nursing homes are often understaffed, leading to inadequate care that results in dangerous levels of dehydration and malnutrition. If you or a loved one has experienced the consequences of neglectful care leading to dehydration and malnutrition in Los Angeles nursing homes, our skilled nursing home abuse lawyer could help. The experienced attorneys at Levin & Nalbandyan can evaluate your case and help you hold negligent nursing homes responsible for their actions.

Understanding a Nursing Home’s Duty of Care

California law requires that nursing homes and other elder caregivers ensure adequate nutrition for patients. Adequate food and liquid intake are necessary to ensure nursing home residents avoid physical harm. Depending on a resident’s condition, this can mean ensuring sufficient food supply and intake or providing assistance during feeding. Based on their training, Los Angeles nursing home staff members understand that elderly individuals are more vulnerable to dehydration and malnutrition and are obligated to act responsibly.

When nursing home staff fail to provide necessary care related to a resident’s condition, they have breached their duty of care. A facility that breaches its duty of care is guilty of negligence and responsible for providing compensation to the individuals its actions have harmed.

Symptoms of Dehydration and Malnutrition in Older Adults

The signs of dehydration and malnutrition in Los Angeles nursing home residents are often subtle. If the individual suffers from dementia or cognitive disabilities, they are less likely to recognize their discomfort and share concerns. When visiting loved ones in a nursing home, visitors should carefully watch for the following signs and symptoms:

• Thirst
• Dry mouth
• Weight loss
• Decreased responsiveness
• Fatigue
• Decreased urination
• Dizziness
• Irritability and confusion

In severe cases, dehydration and malnutrition can become a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention. When suffering from severe dehydration, an individual may experience low blood pressure, rapid heart rate, or even unconsciousness. Recognizable symptoms of emergent conditions can include sunken eyes, little or no urination, and extremely dry mouth and skin. Delays in seeking medical attention when these conditions arise can lead to worsening outcomes for the patient.

Contact an Experienced Attorney for Help With a Dehydration and Malnutrition Claim

Dehydration and malnutrition can lead to severe injuries and dangerous health conditions in older adults. Weakness related to a lack of nutrition can cause lethargy, leading to falls. Severe cases of dehydration that go untreated can lead to renal failure or even stroke. Understaffing is the cause of most cases of dehydration and malnutrition in Los Angeles nursing homes. However, it does not relieve a facility of the responsibility of performing its required duties to keep residents safe and healthy.

If you or a loved one was affected by the consequences of dehydration and malnutrition, our experienced lawyers can help. At Levin & Nalbandyan, we are dedicated to fighting on behalf of your elderly loved ones. Our skilled legal team could help you gather evidence, file a claim, and negotiate with defense attorneys and insurance representatives. If necessary, we will be prepared to take your case to court to fight for your right to compensation for injuries caused by nursing home negligence. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.