Residents with swallowing disorders (dysphagia) need thickeners to prevent aspiration. If a facility fails to provide these or provides them in the wrong consistency, the resident may stop drinking out of fear or physical inability, leading to dehydration.
Yes. Dehydration causes orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure when standing) and confusion, both of which are major risk factors for falls. Many of our fall cases are actually rooted in nursing home dehydration.
Not usually. If a resident refuses fluids, the facility must try different approaches (popsicles, different juices, verbal cues) and notify the physician or family. A simple "refused" note in a chart does not absolve them of their duty to keep the resident hydrated.
We look at medical records (I&Os), lab results showing high sodium or BUN levels, and witness testimony. We also use facility records to see if the staff was spread too thin to provide the required "ADL" (Activities of Daily Living) assistance.
Yes. Chronic dehydration is a leading cause of recurring UTIs and acute kidney injury in nursing homes. If the facility’s failure to provide fluids caused these medical complications, they are liable for the damages.
No. While seniors may have a lower thirst drive, dehydration is a medical condition, not a natural part of getting older. Facilities are legally required to manage this risk through hydration programs and monitoring.
Under the California Elder Abuse Act, families can seek recovery for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and in cases of extreme recklessness, punitive damages. Unique to this act, you may also be able to recover attorney’s fees, ensuring that the cost of litigation...
It is called "silent" because food or liquid can enter the lungs without causing an immediate, violent choking fit. In negligent Oakland facilities, distracted staff may miss subtle signs like watering eyes or a gurgling voice. Without intervention, this leads to a...
We conduct a deep-dive audit of the facility’s records. This includes comparing the Physician’s Orders against the Kitchen Tray Logs and CNA Flow Sheets. If a doctor ordered "thickened liquids" but the logs show the resident was served regular water, we have clear...
Key red flags include unexplained weight loss, frequent coughing during meals, "pocketing" food in the cheeks, and recurrent respiratory infections. If you notice a high turnover of staff or see residents eating unattended who clearly need help, the facility may be...
