Birth Injuries and Delayed Diagnosis of Fetal Distress
Millions of women give birth each year. While the majority of births are joyous occasions that are free of issues, there are numerous cases where complications develop. Birth complications can affect both the mother and child. If a baby goes into fetal distress during labor, it is imperative that medical professionals act quickly and appropriately.
Without prompt action, birth injuries can occur. Birth injuries related to delayed diagnosis of fetal distress are often the result of medical malpractice. The birth injury lawyers at Zucker & Regev, P.C. can help malpractice victims in the Brooklyn, NY-area collect financial compensation for damages from a birth injury.
Signs of Fetal Distress
Fetal distress is a broad term used to describe signs or symptoms occurring before or during birth which indicate that the fetus is not well. Most often, fetal distress is an indication that the fetus is not getting enough oxygen. There are many issues that could lead to fetal distress, including post-term pregnancy, prolonged labor, and strong or frequent contractions during labor.
When a woman goes into labor, both she and the fetus should be constantly monitored for potential signs of fetal distress. Recognizing and responding to signs of fetal distress is key to minimizing the risk of serious injuries or complications. Some of the most common signs of fetal distress include:
- Changes in fetal heart rate or abnormal heart rate pattern
- Minimal movement from the fetus
- Presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid
- Abnormal amniotic fluid level
- Vaginal bleeding
- High maternal blood pressure
Potential Consequences of Fetal Distress
If fetal distress is recognized and responded to appropriately, there should be no serious consequences for the baby. Unfortunately, delayed diagnosis of fetal distress can result in birth injuries, and likely long-term or lifelong complications, such as:
- Cerebral palsy
- Brain injury
- Developmental delays
- Hearing impairment
- Vision impairment
- Compromised motor skills
- Learning disabilities
- Mental health disabilities
Liability for Birth Injuries
Parents are often unsure of who is responsible for a birth injury. If there is even suspicion that a birth injury may be the result of delayed diagnosis of fetal distress, it is important for parents to consult a birth injury lawyer. Our Brooklyn legal team can investigate birth injuries to determine if there is evidence to prove that an injury was a result of medical malpractice.
If a medical professional fails to provide the accepted standard of care, and your child and family suffer as a result, they should be held liable for all resulting damages. Typical damages in a birth injury case include compensation for economic losses, such as the cost of past and future medical expenses (including therapy or rehabilitation), and compensation for non-economic losses, which may include pain and suffering and emotional distress.
Contact Us
If your child has been the victim of a birth injury, the legal team at Zucker & Regev, P.C. is prepared to fight for the compensation you are due for injury damages. To discuss your situation with our knowledgeable birth injury lawyers, send us a message online at your earliest convenience, or call our Brooklyn firm at (718) 521-2764.