Mismanagement of Birth Leads to Cerebral Palsy
Posted in Medical Malpractice on December 26, 2013
Attorney Jay Kelley recalls one traumatic case in which twins were born to thrilled parents. One infant was born healthy, but the other suffers from a lifelong medical condition due to the negligence of hospital staff.
For many, one of the happiest times in our adult lives is the day our child is born. Bringing a new life into the world should be a joyous and miraculous occasion. Unfortunately, that is not always the case.
While there have been many medical advances to protect both mother and child, each birth presents its own unique challenges that require competent care.
Fetal Monitoring & Medical Negligence
For example, medical professionals frequently use monitoring equipment during the delivery. Fetal monitoring strips show the fetal heart rate and the mother’s contractions. Prompt action in the event of fetal distress can reduce the risk of serious medical conditions and infant deaths; but what happens when the equipment used to help save babies’ lives is not monitored properly?
Mismanaged Birth Leads to Serious Injuries
The results of a mismanaged birth can be devastating. Babies who are not tragically lost at birth are often born with debilitating conditions such as cerebral palsy and brachial plexus injuries. In some instances, these types of serious medical injuries may indicate negligence by your doctor or nursing staff during delivery.
What are the Early Signs of Cerebral Palsy & Erbs Palsy?
Early signs of cerebral palsy and Erb’s palsy (another birth injury) are seizures, spastic or tight muscles, limp arms, difficulty controlling the head and the inability for the baby to sit up, crawl and walk at the correct milestone time of their infancy. Children who suffer these injuries can incur a lifetime of medical costs including doctor visits, hospital stays, and other medical treatments.
Seek Legal Representation
Your family should not be forced to handle the burden of these injuries due to the negligence of others. In cases of medical malpractice in Columbus, you deserve to be fully compensated for not only the injury during birth, but also the future costs of the harm done to your child.
To learn more about birth injury law, I encourage you to watch the video above and to explore our educational website at elkandelk.com. If you have legal questions, please call an experienced Columbus birth injury lawyer. I welcome your call.