According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are at least 1.3 million nursing home residents in the United States. For many elderly adults and others with some form of dependency, choosing to live in a nursing home can be a wonderful option.
Nursing homes offer round-the-clock care from trained staff members, recreational activities, assistance with daily needs, and more. But not every nursing home resident has a pleasant experience. In extreme cases, nursing home neglect or abuse can lead to dehydration.
If your loved one suffered from dehydration while living in a nursing home, you could have grounds for legal action. You can contact a San Antonio dehydration lawyer and speak with them about your next steps. If you are interested in learning more, schedule a free consultation with a member of the Pintas & Mullins Law Firm team at (800) 842-6336.
The Effects of Dehydration
Water is essential for proper bodily functions, as virtually every cell, organ, and physiological system relies on hydration. Dehydration occurs when there is a dangerously low volume of water in the body. Excessive urination, failure to consume enough water, medication side effects, and various other factors can lead to this condition.
Dehydration ranges in severity. Mild cases can be acute with no long-term effects, but more serious cases can lead to permanent damage and even life-threatening complications. Effects of dehydration include but are not limited to:
- Kidney failure
- Loss of consciousness
- Muscle weakness
- Dry mouth
- Confusion or disorientation
- Loss of balance
- Unusual stool
- Pneumonia
- Urinary tract infections
- Lethargy
- Organ failure
- Death
While anyone is susceptible to dehydration, certain populations, such as older adults, are more likely to suffer from dehydration.
Dehydration Is Dangerous for Elderly Adults
Elderly adults are at a greater risk of dehydration for various reasons. As we age, our bodies tend to change in a way that affects water absorption. These physiological changes put elderly adults at a greater risk of dehydration, which can have devastating effects.
Another common factor is the lack of understanding of the importance of hydration. According to Nutrition and Healthy Aging, many senior adults lack basic literacy about the importance of hydration. Sometimes this can be caused by Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or another cognitive impairment.
In many cases, elderly adults rely on other individuals, such as nursing home staff, to help keep them hydrated if they cannot do so themselves. If your loved one was under the care of a nursing home staff member at the time of their dehydration, it is possible that a failure on the staff’s part led to their dehydration.
Older adults also tend to take more medicines, which can have side effects that create fluid loss. If your loved one requires assistance from a caregiver, it is important that they are familiar with medication side effects in case your loved one is at risk of dehydration. Caregivers and nursing home staff members should also know the signs of dehydration and what to do if a resident is at risk.
If the negligence or abuse of a nursing home facility or staff member caused your loved one to suffer from dehydration, you could have grounds for legal action. Some victims can even recover compensation by seeking legal action.
You can discuss your case with the San Antonio dehydration lawyer during a free consultation. Call a team member at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm who can help you today.
For a free legal consultation with a Dehydration Lawyer serving San Antonio, call (800) 794-0444
Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
Many nursing homes and staff members are well-trained and competent, but mistakes can still happen. Federal law requires nursing homes to provide the highest possible standard of care for your loved one based on the Nursing Home Reform Act of 1987. Failing to adhere to this law could be a form of abuse or neglect and can include any improper care that leads to dehydration. If your loved one is the victim of dehydration, it is possible to recover compensation by filing a lawsuit.
San Antonio Dehydration Lawyer Near Me (800) 794-0444
Potentially Recoverable Compensation
While not every lawsuit is successful, some victims of dehydration cases can recover compensation, including but not limited to:
- Compensation for emotional suffering
- Reimbursement for medical expenses, both past and future, for care related to dehydration
- Reimbursement for legal fees
The types of compensation you and your family could be eligible for depends on your specific situation, so it could be in your best interest to discuss your case with a lawyer if you are exploring your options. But remember, there is a statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit, so acting promptly can help ensure you have a shot at justice.
Under the statute of limitations in Texas, you generally have two years to file a personal injury lawsuit, per the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code §16.003. An attorney can file your case and make it into civil court on time.
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Understanding Your Legal Options
Watching a loved one suffer from a preventable illness or condition, such as dehydration, can be painful. Not to mention the financial repercussions a health crisis could have on your family.
It is important to remember that you have legal options during this challenging time and could even recover compensation. While taking legal action is not for everyone, some victims and their family members find a sense of justice and closure following a successful case.
If you are interested in learning more about what you can do next, call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 842-6336 to learn more about how a San Antonio dehydration lawyer could help your case.
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