Here’s how you can reduce your chances of medical negligence during birth
Each year, approximately 28,000 children are born with a birth injury. Sometimes a birth injury may be something very small or minor that will heal quickly, such as bruising. Other times, a birth injury might include broken bones or even brain damage. What should be a joyous occasion can quickly become devastating if a birth injury occurs. When a family chooses their medical care team, they’re trusting their child’s health and safety to those professionals. This can make medical malpractice during the birthing process even more traumatizing. If you or someone you know is preparing to give birth, make sure you’re aware that medical injuries can occur during the birthing process; however, there are several things you can do to reduce your chances of experiencing medical negligence during birth.
First off, consider hiring a doula to accompany you and your partner to the birth. A doula is an experienced birth professional who can help answer questions, explain different procedures to you, and help guide you throughout the birthing process. Additionally, a doula can help you interact with doctors and nurses during this time. If a doctor wants to perform a medical intervention you don’t quite understand, a doula can intercede on your behalf and talk with you about whether this is something you are comfortable with. Additionally, a doula can help reduce your stress levels during birth by ensuring that you and your infant are never left alone during this time.
It’s also important to carefully consider your care team. While you may have a limited number of options when it comes to choosing a hospital or birthing center, make sure you select a place that you’re comfortable with. You should meet with your care team ahead of time, tour the birthing facilities, and ask any questions you may have. It’s a good idea to develop an understanding of what types of complications you may face during the birthing process and how your doctor handles those types of complications. Additionally, don’t be afraid to ask how experienced a professional is and whether they are familiar with patients who have your type of medical history.
Finally, make sure you, your partner, and your doula each pay careful attention to how the baby is treated and handled. If a complication arises, it’s very important to document what happens as much as possible. For example, if the doctor treats the baby with a specific type of medication, make sure you write down the name of the medicine so you’ll have a record of it. You should also take pictures of the child, especially if an injury, such as a broken arm, appears to be present. If the need to deal with a medical malpractice lawsuit arises, you’ll want to have as much evidence to present to your attorney as possible.
While giving birth should be a wonderful and joyous experience, complications do sometimes occur that can lead to instances of medical negligence. Make sure you meet with an attorney promptly if you believe you or someone you love was the victim of medical negligence during birth.