Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, or HIE, is a type of brain damage in babies caused by the lack of oxygen to their brain before, during, or shortly after the birth process. Because this lack of oxygen affects a baby’s central nervous system, it can result in many neurological and developmental issues throughout a child’s life. Although HIE can have many causes, some cases of HIE result from medical malpractice. When parents believe their child’s birth injury was the result of their provider’s negligence, it’s crucial to consult with a hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy law firm to understand their legal rights.
How Does Medical Negligence Cause HIE?
Many things can put a baby at risk for HIE, from the health of the parent to health issues in the prenatal development of the baby. And while these are heartbreaking, they are unavoidable. But when the medical team entrusted with a baby’s development and birth offers inappropriate or substandard care, it is not only avoidable but can be considered medical negligence.
Some examples of medical negligence in HIE matters include:
- Failure to recognize and treat the birth mother’s health conditions, such as preeclampsia or gestational diabetes
- Failure to properly monitor the baby’s vital signs during labor or failure to recognize fetal distress
- Failure to order a C-section when complications warrant one
- Failure to administer the right medication or proper dosage to slow or stimulate labor
- Failure to properly use delivery assistance tools such as forceps or vacuum extractors
Unfortunately, birth parents who rely on the skill and professionalism of their birth team typically have no idea that these professionals are not doing their job. In fact, it may take months before they suspect or realize that their baby’s issues were the result of negligence by the very healthcare professionals they trusted.
Should You Consult with a Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy Law Firm if Your Child Has Been Diagnosed With HIE?
Caring for a child with HIE can require ongoing and expensive treatments, surgeries, physical therapy, medical equipment, and support. You may be looking at other peripheral costs, such as modifications to your home or vehicle. You may require full-time care for your child or have to leave work to become your child’s primary caregiver.
Not all cases of HIE are a matter of medical malpractice. But if your child has been diagnosed with HIE and it can be proven that it was a matter of negligence, bringing a birth injury claim could result in a settlement or verdict that can provide peace of mind and help you pay for your child’s needs. Furthermore, it will hold your provider liable for their negligent care. It is worth your while to discuss this with a hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy law firm to understand your legal rights and options.
If you suspect that negligence may have harmed your child, let the medical malpractice lawyers at Kuhlman Law help. Call us at (503) 479-3646 to schedule a no-cost consultation, or contact our Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy Law Firm through our website.
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