Birth Trauma and Malpractice Lawsuits
Expectant parents often work hard to make sure their baby will be protected after birth. Much preparation often goes into child-proofing the home, providing a safe room for the baby to sleep in, and the purchase of cribs, play-pens, and safe toys to prevent injuries to the child. Unfortunately, errors made by medical professionals during childbirth may derail the parent’s best intentions and may cause injury to the child before the parents can even take their newborn baby home.
Medical procedures often carry a certain level of risk to the patient, and responsible medical professionals are often able to explain the hazards to make sure patients are aware of the inherent dangers. It is the responsibility of medical professionals to closely monitor expecting mothers throughout the pregnancy and explain the possible risks involved with the birth of a child.
Some birth injuries may be caused by poor or inaccurate diagnosis during the stages of pregnancy. If the doctor or physician fails to notice birth defects or complications, the baby may suffer serious injury while in the womb. Pregnant women should make sure to visit their doctor for regular check-ups to make sure that there are no unforeseen problems of issues that may arise. If a doctor notices a complication, the parents may have ample time to treat the issue or decide on a prudent course of action.
Injuries may also occur during the birthing process. Such injuries can have serious effects on both the baby and the mother, and may cause lasting health issues or disability. Problems and injuries may arise through last-minute C-sections, mishandling of the baby during childbirth, medication errors, and inadequate monitoring of the condition of the baby during birth.
Parents have a reasonable expectation of competence and diligence on the part of the doctors and nurses in charge of handling the baby during childbirth. If a medical professional fails to perform his or her duties in a responsible manner, the parents may be eligible for compensation for pain, suffering, injuries to the mother and/or baby, and other damages. Doctors and nurses who behave in a negligent or careless manner may be held legally accountable for their actions and the consequences of such actions.
If a newborn baby or mother suffers injury during childbirth, the parents may be able to pursue legal action against those responsible. For more information on birth trauma and your legal options, visit the website of the Philadelphia birth injury lawyers of Lowenthal & Abrams.