Obstetrical negligence includes negligence that occurs during pregnancy and childbirth. This type of medical malpractice can cause long-term harm to or death of the infant and/ or the mother. Common results of obstetrical negligence include:
- Brain injuries
- Cerebral palsy
- Erb’s palsy
- Paralysis
- Learning disabilities
- Infant death
Most injuries caused by obstetrical negligence involve oxygen deprivation or misuse of medical instruments during childbirth. Common forms of obstetrical negligence include:
- Failure to properly monitor fetus and respond to fetal distress
- Failure to perform a timely c-section
- Failure to diagnose and treat medical problems in the mother
- Miscalculation of size of the baby
- Administration of improper medications during pregnancy and/or delivery
- Improper use of delivery instruments including forceps and vacuum
- Failure to give oxygen to newborns when needed
Preventable long-term damage or death can result from obstetrical negligence. Often, birth injuries can mean that life-long medical care, various types of therapy, and sometimes in-home care will be necessary for the child. Birth injuries can create a huge emotional and financial burden for children and their families.
Any suspicion of obstetrical negligence should be taken seriously and acted upon immediately. Whether during pregnancy or after child-birth, the sooner that medical action is taken to counteract obstetrical negligence, the better the chances are for the child to recover. Many conditions can be treated successfully if recognized and treated early.
Like all types of medical malpractice, time limits will apply to your right to pursue compensation in an obstetrical negligence case. Children with birth injuries often require very expensive long-term medical attention, special equipment and therapy. It is important that you act quickly to ensure that you receive compensation which will in turn ensure that these needs are provided for financially. Compensation for obstetrical negligence can include:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation
- Special education
- In-home care
- Future lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement
- Punitive damages
Injury or death as a result of obstetrical negligence is emotionally devastating for families, especially if the mother suspected and reported problems during pregnancy. If you or a loved one has suffered from or lost a child to obstetrical negligence contact an experienced birth injury attorney today.
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