Nursing home residents need the facility’s staff members to provide specific types of assistance. Some residents need to have their fluid input and output monitored. Even residents who don’t have that specific need should still be monitored for hydration.
Hydration problems in long-term care facilities can become dangerous quickly. Older adults may not feel thirsty. They may have trouble swallowing or limited mobility. Additionally, some medical side effects and medical conditions can increase the risk of dehydration.
Signs of dehydration in nursing home residents
Dehydration isn’t always obvious at first. The resident may seem confused, weak, dizzy or tired. If it’s left untreated, dehydration can lead to dark urine, dry mouth, constipation, rapid heartbeat and low blood pressure.
Loved ones and staff members should always be vigilant to watch out for signs of dehydration. Dry lips, unexplained confusion, weight changes, complaints of thirst, and sudden weakness are all signs that might be easy to spot.
Other issues can manifest from dehydration. These include urinary tract infections, falls, worsened cognitive symptoms and kidney problems. For long-term care residents, those issues can lead to significant medical care.
Hydration is a basic part of nursing home care, so staff members should ensure they’re offering fluids to residents if they don’t notice the resident is drinking. While some residents have medical conditions that negatively impact fluid balance, preventable dehydration should be taken seriously by staff members
Once a resident suffers harm from dehydration, medical treatment is necessary. The resident may opt to seek compensation for nursing home negligence, so working with someone familiar with these matters may be beneficial.