California Nursing Home Neglect Attorneys
Serving Clients in California, Nevada and Arizona
Water is vital to a healthy lifestyle. The elderly actually need more water than their younger counterparts. Severe dehydration can cause a myriad of symptoms, including:
- Bedsores (also known as “decubitus ulcers” and “pressure sores”)
- Skin breaks
- Confusion
- Medication ineffectiveness – if a particular medicine is given with insufficient water, it may metabolize differently
- Organ failure
- Death
These symptoms can all be potentially lethal for someone who is already frail, bedridden, confused or has a limited ability to express their needs.
At the Brandi Law Firm in San Francisco, we provide experienced and compassionate legal representation for those who have suffered from nursing home neglect and abuse. We work diligently to hold care facilities accountable for their negligent actions. We have over 70 years of combined experience working on behalf of the injured. Our efforts over the years have resulted in excess of $1.5 billion in recovery for our clients.
Effectively Representing the Victims of Nursing Home Neglect
The staff of nursing homes must vigilantly monitor the fluid intake of residents. A patient may be physically unable to drink unassisted and may depend on the staff to provide adequate assistance. Fluids and appropriate drinking glasses and straws must be within reach. Residents who suffer from dementia or memory loss must be frequently reminded that they need to drink. Residents who suffer from congestive heart failure or other diseases affecting the lymphatic system may be on diuretics (like Torsemide and Lasix) and need to be closely monitored –diuretics actually flush fluid out of the body, so dehydration is of particular concern. Systemic problems as a result of dehydration can arise rapidly, but may not be immediately apparent if someone familiar with the patient is not paying close attention. Frequent shift changes, inadequate training and the high turnover rate of nursing home staff members can result in patients being overlooked.
When we place our loved ones into the care of a nursing home, long-term care facility, board and care facility or assisted-living home, we presume they will receive the care they need. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. If someone you love has suffered the effects of dehydration or malnutrition while in a nursing home or other residential care facility, our lawyers can help you pursue legal action on their behalf.
In addition to securing financial compensation for medical expenses, injuries and suffering, a lawsuit can be the impetus for significant change in the procedures of a care facility. Adding additional staff members and providing proper training are positive steps that can prevent future harm to other residents.
For the sake of a loved one and the other residents of any nursing home or care facility who have suffered the devastating effects of dehydration, contact the Brandi Law Firm today. You can call us toll-free at 800-481-1615, locally in the San Francisco area at 415-989-1000, or e-mail us. Your consultation is always free and confidential.
