Atlanta Nursing Home Dehydration Lawsuits
NOTE: Our law firm does not handle these cases. This article is for informational purposes only. Information found in the article does not constitute as formal legal advice and does not create an attorney/client relationship.
Nursing home abuse and neglect are serious public health concerns in the United States. Unfortunately, thousands of nursing home residents are abused or neglected each day across the country, including in Georgia. Many suffer injuries or illness due to dehydration.
What Are Signs of Dehydration?
The best way to know if your loved one is being neglected in a nursing home is to know the signs of nursing home abuse. Signs of malnutrition and dehydration are common indications that residents in the nursing home are being neglected.
Many residents cannot get water for themselves, or they are unable to drink a beverage without assistance. Staff members should monitor residents closely to ensure they receive sufficient fluids. They should assist residents who need help drinking beverages.
Signs of dehydration include:
- Dry mouth
- Dry skin
- Feeling tired
- Feeling very thirsty
- Dark-colored urine
- Sweating and urinating less than usual
- Dizziness
Dehydration could result in wrongful death. Life-threatening symptoms of dehydration that require immediate medical attention include:
- Shock
- Confusion
- Rapid heartbeat
- Fainting
- Rapid breathing
- Lack of urination
If you believe your loved one is dehydrated, seek immediate medical attention. You can call 911 if the nursing home refuses to assist you in seeking medical care for your loved one.
Who is Liable for Nursing Home Dehydration Claims in Georgia?
The nursing home is ultimately responsible for everything that occurs within the facility. It owes a duty and an obligation to the residents to ensure they are safe and receive adequate care. Even though a staff member may be the person responsible for the neglect or abuse, the nursing home may be vicariously liable.
Depending on the circumstances, the staff members responsible for abuse or neglect could face criminal charges in addition to a civil lawsuit. Likewise, the company that owns the nursing home may be fined for violations of Georgia’s health and safety code.
What Damages Can My Loved One Receive for a Nursing Home Neglect Claim?
If your loved one sustained harm because of nursing home neglect or abuse, they could be entitled to compensation for their damages.
Damages in a nursing home claim may include:
- The cost of medical care and personal care while receiving treatment for injuries
- The cost of moving the resident to a new nursing home
- Ongoing personal care and medical care for permanent conditions
- Physical, emotional, and mental pain and suffering
