According to statistics, about 5 in every 1,000 babies suffers a birth injury during the birthing process. Although some of these birth injuries may be unavoidable, other times they are preventable and may be the result of the actions or inaction of medical personnel during the delivery process. In these instances the health care professional may be found to have committed medical malpractice and be liable for the harm caused to your child.
Medical malpractice refers to a personal injury matter where a medical provider such as a doctor, nurse or other healthcare professional is negligent in the care that they provide, resulting in illness, injury or wrongful death. This occurs when the health care professional fails to follow standard and accepted medical practices. Frequently, the consequences in terms of financial stress and human suffering are high.
If you believe you child has suffered a birth injury as the result of the care received during a delivery, discussing your situation with a knowledgeableHawaii birth injury attorney right away is important to begin an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the birth and determine your next steps.
One circumstance that may lead to preventable birth injuries is during "assisted deliveries." An assisted delivery is one where a doctor uses a birthing tool such as forceps during the pushing phase of labor to help the infant through the birth canal. Babies that are in a breech position, that are large, or that are premature are more likely to require the use of forceps during delivery. Further, sometimes when labor is prolonged, a doctor is more likely to use forceps.
Unfortunately, the improper use of forceps frequently lead to birth injuries such as head swelling and bruising, and other more serious injuries complications such as brain injuries.
For more information or if you believe your infant may have been harmed as the result of medical malpractice, contact the top Hawaii birth injury lawyers at Bostwick & Peterson, LLP for an immediate consultation.
