While the majority of pregnancies, labor and births go smoothly, occasionally errors occur and the birthing process does not go as planned. Doctors, nurses and other health care professionals – whether inadvertently, carelessly or recklessly – may make mistakes that lead to serious, and potentially life-threatening birth injuries. In these instances, the health care provider may be held liable for medical malpractice.
Medical errors can occur in any type of situation. For example, it is critical that pregnant women receive appropriate prenatal care, and monitor an infant's development. This includes providing appropriate testing, such as ultrasounds, and discussing available and appropriate prenatal tests. The failure to follow these guidelines may lead to birth complications and injuries.
One common type of birth injury is cerebral palsy. The development of cerebral palsy is often linked to trauma at birth. In some situations, it is the result of oxygen deprivation at or near the time of birth, which may occur if a physician allows the baby to remain in the birth canal too long. The improper use of forceps may also bring this condition about.
Unfortunately, this condition is chronic and will not get better overtime. Children with cerebral palsy may require a lifetime of costly medical care and rehabilitation.
If you believe your child has developed cerebral palsy or other birth injury as the result of medical malpractice, it is crucial to consult with an experienced California birth injury lawyer as soon as possible to begin an investigation into your matter.
For more information, please contact the top California birth injury attorneys at Bostwick & Peterson, LLP for an immediate consultation.