Doctors and nurses who bring babies into the world are helping create families and there is no doubt that they care for the safety and well-being of their patients. That’s why, when a patient accuses a doctor or nurse of causing their newborn child to suffer a birth injury, it can be devastating.
Common birth injuries
Some birth injuries are minor, like bruises or discomfort from the birth process. In other situations, a baby can suffer damage to their nerves from force during delivery, causing them to have difficulties with muscle control and coordination throughout their life, as well as paralysis. Babies can also suffer from a brain injury if they do not receive enough oxygen during birth.
Medical malpractice accusations and defenses
Patients may accuse the doctor or nurse of medical malpractice, meaning that their actions did not meet the standard of care expected by their profession.
They may state that the healthcare professional did not adequately monitor the baby and mother during labor and delivery, did not make timely decisions about their care, or used unnecessary instruments that caused a birth injury, for example. They may also accuse the doctor or nurse of administering incorrect medications or failing to recognize that the baby was in distress.
If you are faced with an accusation of medical malpractice, it is important to gather documents that can support that you acted within the standard of care. These may include medical records, including the patient’s medical history, witness statements, postpartum care notes, and other information that demonstrates your reasoning and assessment of the patient.