What legal options exist if a nursing home resident suffers severe dehydration or malnutrition?
Reviewed by Jeffrey S. Altman · Florida Bar No. 159174 · Million Dollar Advocates Forum member · Reviewed 8 November 2026
When a resident suffers from severe dehydration or malnutrition, families can pursue a civil negligence claim under Fla. Stat. § 400.023. Facilities are obligated to monitor dietary intake and adjust care plans accordingly. Taking legal action involves distinct phases: 1. Securing complete dietary intake sheets and medical charts. 2. Having independent healthcare professionals evaluate whether systemic neglect caused the resident's physical decline. 3. Serving a formal notice of intent under Florida statutory pre-suit rules. Jeffrey S. Altman at The Altman Law Firm investigates whether chronic understaffing led staff to overlook basic nutritional needs.