Was Medical Negligence the Cause of My Child’s Birth Injuries?

 Posted on November 22, 2023 in Birth Injury

In the United States, the prospect of welcoming a new life into the world is both exciting and nerve-wracking. Unfortunately, birth injuries such as cerebral palsy affect many newborns. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that mistakes during childbirth contribute significantly to these changes. When faced with the uncertainty of your newborn's health, it is crucial to contact a birth injury attorney to help you understand if a birth injury was caused by medical negligence.

How Does Medical Negligence Lead to Cerebral Palsy?

Cerebral palsy, a condition affecting movement and muscle coordination, often finds its roots in medical mistakes. When healthcare professionals, such as doctors or nurses, neglect to monitor or respond appropriately during childbirth, they may be deemed negligent in fulfilling their duty to patients. These lapses in care can have serious consequences, leading to complications that contribute to the development of cerebral palsy in newborns.

How Can You Recognize Negligence in Labor and Delivery?

A vigilant approach to monitoring both the mother and baby during labor and delivery is essential to identify and address potential complications. Medical negligence by the medical team can manifest in various ways, from a failure to provide proper prenatal care to mismanagement during labor. Examples include inadequate response to bleeding, failure to diagnose infections, or misuse of delivery tools like vacuum extractors. It is crucial to examine medical records thoroughly to determine if the actions of the delivery team played a role in causing cerebral palsy. Only through careful review can the likely cause of injuries be uncovered, shedding light on whether the medical team's actions contributed to a child's cerebral palsy.

How Can I Collect Evidence?

Your medical records during pregnancy, labor, and after childbirth are vital pieces of evidence in a potential medical malpractice claim. Ensure your attorney has access to these records, as they can be pivotal in settlement negotiations or trial proceedings. Additionally, collecting sworn testimony from care providers and witnesses early on can help ensure that events are accurately recalled when needed.

Talk to a Medical Expert

In Illinois, any medical malpractice claim requires a sworn affidavit from a medical expert. This expert testimony is crucial in establishing whether the care and treatment received deviated from the expected standards. Your attorney can assist you in working with a medical expert to obtain the necessary affidavit and valuable information it contains. This step is vital in building a strong case for medical negligence.

Schedule a Free Consultation with a Cook County, IL, Birth Injury Lawyer

 If you suspect that medical negligence played a role in your child's birth injury, you should seek guidance from a Chicago, IL birth injury attorney promptly. At Birth Injury Law Alliance, Ltd. we can identify potential red flags in your childbirth experience. Call 312-462-4200 for a free consultation.