Birth injuries can be devastating for both the newborn and their family. Unfortunately, they are not uncommon and can occur in any hospital, including those in Georgia. In this blog post, we will explore some of the common causes of birth injuries in Georgia hospitals.
Prolonged labor or delivery
Prolonged labor or delivery can cause birth injuries such as fetal distress, which can lead to brain damage or cerebral palsy. If a healthcare provider fails to recognize signs of fetal distress or delay in delivery, it can lead to serious complications.
Improper use of instruments during delivery
The improper use of forceps or vacuum extractors during delivery can cause birth injuries such as skull fractures, nerve damage, and brain hemorrhages. The use of these instruments should only be done by skilled professionals who are properly trained to minimize the risk of injury.
Failure to monitor the fetal heart rate
Monitoring the fetal heart rate is crucial during labor and delivery as it can provide vital information about the baby’s health. If the healthcare provider fails to monitor the fetal heart rate or fails to recognize signs of distress, it can lead to serious birth injuries.
Failure to order a C-section when necessary
A C-section may be necessary if there are complications during delivery that could endanger the baby’s health, such as a prolapsed umbilical cord, placenta previa, or fetal distress. If a healthcare provider fails to order a C-section when necessary, it can lead to serious birth injuries such as brain damage, cerebral palsy, or even death.
Failure to diagnose or treat maternal infections
Maternal infections such as group B strep or chorioamnionitis can cause serious harm to the newborn. If the healthcare provider fails to diagnose or treat these infections, it can lead to sepsis, meningitis, or brain damage in the newborn.
It’s important to note that birth injuries can also occur due to medical malpractice. Medical malpractice occurs when a healthcare provider fails to meet the standard of care that is expected of them, resulting in harm to the patient. If you suspect that a birth injury was caused by medical malpractice, it’s crucial to speak with an attorney who specializes in medical malpractice cases.
It’s also worth mentioning that the emotional toll of a birth injury can be just as devastating as the physical toll. Parents may experience feelings of guilt, anger, and sadness, and the cost of caring for a child with a birth injury can be substantial. That’s why it’s essential to have a legal team on your side that understands the impact of birth injuries and can fight for your rights.
If you or a loved one has suffered a birth injury in a Georgia hospital, it’s crucial to act quickly. In Georgia, there is a statute of limitations for medical malpractice cases, meaning that there is a time limit for filing a claim. The sooner you speak with an attorney, the better your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Birth injuries are a devastating reality for some families in Georgia. However, it’s essential to understand the common causes of these injuries and to take action if you suspect that a healthcare provider’s negligence was involved. By speaking with an experienced attorney, you can begin the process of seeking justice and holding those responsible accountable for their actions.
Keenan Law Firm is a team of experienced birth injury attorneys who can provide legal assistance to families who have experienced birth injuries in Georgia hospitals. Our firm has a proven track record of success in representing families in these types of cases and can provide the following services:
Legal representation: Our attorneys will work tirelessly to investigate the cause of the birth injury and hold those responsible accountable for their actions. We will gather evidence, consult with medical experts, and negotiate with insurance companies to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Advocacy: We understand the emotional toll that a birth injury can have on families, and we are committed to providing compassionate advocacy throughout the legal process. We will work closely with you to understand your unique situation and develop a legal strategy that is tailored to your needs.
Support: In addition to providing legal representation, we can also connect you with resources and support services to help you and your family cope with the aftermath of a birth injury. This may include medical referrals, counseling services, and other types of support.
Experience: Our firm has been representing families in birth injury cases for over 30 years and has obtained numerous multimillion-dollar settlements and verdicts for our clients. We have the experience and knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of these types of cases and achieve the best possible outcome for you and your family.
If you or a loved one has experienced a birth injury due to the negligence of a healthcare provider in a Georgia hospital, Keenan Law Firm can provide the legal assistance, advocacy, and support you need to seek justice and obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help.