Hello, my name is Susan Farris and my hobby is learning about the law. I have an uncle who is an attorney and I've always looked up to him and that's why I find subjects on law very interesting. Through speaking with my uncle and doing research on my own, I've learned about all the different fields of law. Each field of law centers on its own subject and most attorneys specialize in a certain area of law. These include criminal, personal injury, family, bankruptcy, criminal, immigration and business. I find each one of these fields very interesting and I have the utmost admiration for lawyers because they help people through their legal struggles. I wanted to share this information with others who have questions about the different types of attorneys and the law.
The birth of a new baby should be on of the most exciting times of your life. Unfortunately, complications can arise during the birthing process that can leave lifelong medical complications for the mother and baby. One of the more common complications suffered by newborn babies is the loss of oxygen, or hypoxia. If your child suffered from hypoxia and has lasting medical problems due to the action of the medical staff during the birth, you may have some legal recourse to help ensure you have the financial means to care for your child's medical expenses throughout their life. Here are some things you need to know:
How Does Hypoxia Happen?
Hypoxia occurs any time a baby does not have adequate oxygen before, during, or immediately after birth. There are several ways hypoxia can occur. An insufficient placenta that does not offer adequate blood flow to the baby is one way a baby can suffer from hypoxia. Any issues with the umbilical cord, such as prolapse, can also cause insufficient oxygen intake. Shoulder dystocia, where a baby's shoulder gets stuck in the birth canal during birth, is another problem that can cause hypoxia.
What Are the Outcomes of Hypoxia?
There are so many problems that arise due to hypoxia. The most common is cerebral palsy. Other outcomes can be more severe and leave a child essentially unable to live without a variety of medical interventions. Some babies also do not live after suffering from hypoxia.
Some of the problems associated with hypoxia can be less severe if quick action is taken by the medical team. When recognized and treated immediately, the baby's oxygen levels may be stabilized, which can help to reduce any major brain trauma. However, if the problem is not addressed right away or if the medical staff does not recognize the symptoms of hypoxia quickly enough, the outcome can be poor. Any medical issues due to untreated hypoxia or hypoxia that is not treated urgently can result in significant and expensive medical treatment for the child.
Is There Legal Recourse?
If your child has suffered from hypoxia and you have reason to believe the medical provider may be at fault or did not provide standard of care to help mitigate the hypoxia, you should contact a personal injury lawyer right away. The lifetime medical treatment needed by your child can be financially devastating. Some children who suffer from hypoxia need around-the-clock medical care in the home or in a facility. You also have to consider the special equipment you need to transport your child as well as home modifications necessary to ensure your child has an appropriate and comfortable place to live.
Share23 July 2021
