What is malnutrition and dehydration and what problems do these conditions cause in nursing home patients?
We all require adequate calories, protein, vitamins, minerals and water to maintain good health. Failure to provide elders and dependent adults with necessary nutrition and hydration will lead to a decline in their overall health and will impede healing of any underlying health condition. In fact, malnutrition and dehydration can directly cause or contribute to the following serious health conditions commonly experienced by nursing home patients: • Skin breakdown (bedsores, pressure ulcers, skin tears); more >> • Urinary tract infections; more >> • Weakness and dizziness which can result in falls; more >> • Low blood sugar; and • Kidney failure. If a patient is denied needed nutrition and hydration for an extended period of time, it will ultimately result in death. Due to the overall importance of good nutrition and hydration, nursing homes are legally required to assess each patient’s nutritional needs, and implement specific steps to ensure such needs are met. Who is susceptible to m
