Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is malnutrition and dehydration preventable?
A: In most cases malnutrition and dehydration are completely preventable. Nursing homes are required to assess patients for risk of malnutrition and dehydration and to develop a comprehensive care plan to prevent malnutrition and dehydration. The care plan should address the risk of malnutrition and dehydration and the steps that will be taken by the nursing home to prevent malnutrition and dehydration. For example, a resident may not be able to eat a full meal in one sitting so the care plan should provide for nutritious snacks to be offered throughout the day. If the resident has a swallowing disorder, speech therapy should be ordered. If the resident needs reminding to drink, the nursing assistants should be instructed to frequently prompt the resident to drink.
