Why preparation matters

This guide is for families concerned that a loved one is not getting enough fluids.

Points to cover on dehydration

Use this list to organize your thoughts on dehydration.

Ask about fluid tracking – records. Check water access – within reach. Note confusion changes – dated. Ask for evaluation – promptly. Keep hospital records – if admitted.

What to ask an attorney

Should our loved one be moved because of dehydration? Which deadline applies to a matter involving dehydration? How long does a matter involving dehydration usually take? Who will handle a case involving dehydration?

Other areas the firm handles

Negligent care in long-term care facilities. Malnutrition, dehydration and infections.

Important cautions

Ask whether fluid intake is being tracked.

Keeping your treatment on track

If other residents\' families have similar concerns about dehydration, write down what you observed yourself, not what you heard.

Talking about cost

If someone else's insurer offers to pay quickly after dehydration, find out what you would be giving up before you accept.

Thinking about goals

Family members dealing with dehydration may not agree about whether to pursue a claim. A case review can give everyone the same information to discuss.

A role for family members

Caregiving after dehydration has a real cost in time and money. Keeping a record of the help family members provide can be relevant to a claim involving dehydration.

The local picture

1800 JFK Boulevard is a few blocks west of Philadelphia City Hall; families from Sharswood, Logan Square and Center City can ask about dehydration at the Center City office.

Timing and next steps

Hospital records after a dehydration episode can show how serious it was.

Defining the terms

Dehydration can occur when residents are not helped to drink enough fluids, and it can lead to confusion, infections and hospital stays.

What happens in practice

The firm reviews fluid intake records, care plans and hospital records.

Time and deadlines

If a loved one's safety is at risk because of dehydration, that comes before any legal timeline.

Getting in touch

Meetings take place at 1800 JFK Boulevard, Suite 1500-B.

The team can be reached at (215) 240-7771; details are at PA Nursing Home Lawyers at Haberman Law.

PA Nursing Home Lawyers

Every case turns on its own facts, and prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. If a resident is in immediate danger, call 911.