Date of Award
5-2017
Document Type
Thesis
Primary Advisor
Sheila Jones
Secondary Advisor
Martha Smallwood
Committee Reader
Patricia Hernandez
Abstract
Dehydration in nursing home and long term care facility residents is frequently dismissed
and not treated as a primary concern. However, research has shown that prolonged dehydration in the elderly can result in serious health and cognitive issues. Due to deteriorating physiological conditions and preexisting diseases, dehydration will further complicate a patient’s health condition and exacerbate certain symptoms, lowering overall quality of life. There are a number of underlying factors which contribute to a patient’s hydration status. Research has identified physical, mental and behavioral factors all play a significant role in the willingness and capability of patients to be properly hydrated. In addition, it has been shown that caretakers are critical when it comes to ensuring patient hydration. If effective hydration screening is implemented and caretakers encourage patients to increase their fluid intake, fewer dehydration episodes will occur and the overall quality of life will be improved.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Miller, Carolyn Grace, "Dehydration in Nursing Home Residents: A meta-analysis of causes of dehydration, implications, and those most at risk." (2017). Honors College. 18.
https://digitalcommons.acu.edu/honors/18