Every parent eagerly anticipates the arrival of their newborn, hoping for a smooth delivery and a healthy baby. However, sometimes, the joyous occasion is marred by birth injuries. These are injuries that an infant sustains during the process of labor and delivery. In some cases, these injuries can lead to long-term health issues or even permanent disability.
Factors Contributing to Birth Injuries
These injuries can result from a variety of factors. Let's delve into some of the primary causes:
Maternal Health
The mother's health plays a crucial role in ensuring a safe delivery. Conditions such as obesity, gestational diabetes, or hypertension can increase the risk of complications during childbirth, potentially leading to birth injuries.
Complications During Labor
Certain complications during labor, such as prolonged labor or breech presentation, may also contribute to birth injuries. These complications can put undue stress on the baby, possibly resulting in physical harm.
Medical Negligence in Childbirth
Medical negligence (or malpractice) occurs when a healthcare professional's actions fall below the standard of care, resulting in harm to the patient. In the context of childbirth, this might involve incorrect dosage of medication, negligence during delivery, or delayed diagnosis and treatment of complications.
Incorrect Dosage of Medication
Administering the wrong dosage or type of medication during labor can have severe consequences. For instance, an excessive dosage of Pitocin (a drug used to induce labor) can lead to hyperstimulation, causing distress to the baby, which may result in brain damage or even death.
Negligence During Delivery
Negligence can also occur during the delivery process. For example, the improper use of birth-assisting tools such as vacuum extractors or forceps can cause physical trauma to the newborn, leading to conditions like cerebral palsy.
Delayed Diagnosis & Treatment
Delayed diagnosis and treatment of complications such as fetal distress or maternal hemorrhage can also result in birth injuries. The delay can deprive the baby of oxygen, leading to hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, a condition that can cause developmental delays, epilepsy, and cognitive issues.
The Long-Term Impact of Birth Injuries
The repercussions of birth injuries caused by medical negligence can be life-long. A child may suffer from physical disabilities, learning difficulties, or neurological disorders. Children with birth injuries are also more likely to require special education services, further emphasizing the long-term impact of these injuries.
Get Legal Counsel
If you suspect that your child's birth injury resulted from medical negligence, it's crucial to seek legal advice. A lawyer with experience handling medical malpractice can help you understand your options, gather evidence, and build a strong case. It's important to remember that compensation from such cases can assist with medical expenses, therapy costs, and other necessities for your child's care.
What sets the Law Offices of Charles R. Gueli apart is their dedication to treating each client with compassion, respect, and professionalism. Recognizing that every case is different, the firm provides personalized attention, ensuring that clients aren't just another number but receive the care and attention they deserve throughout the legal process.
Reach out to our team online or via phone (516) 628-6402 to get started on our case.