When a baby fails to receive sufficient oxygen before, during or after delivery, he or she suffers from hypoxia. This lack of oxygen can lead to numerous types of birth injuries that could cause permanent damage to a child. The medical technology available to doctors here in Delaware and elsewhere should be able to detect when conditions exist that could lead to hypoxia. A failure to diagnose and rectify the situation as quickly and safely as possible could constitute medical malpractice.
The odds are that a full recovery is possible in cases of mild hypoxia. Sadly, once there is brain damage, it cannot be undone. The longer the hypoxia remains undiagnosed, and subsequently untreated, the greater the chances are that the baby will suffer some permanent disability that will require lifelong medical care and other assistance.
The signs that brain damage occurred are not always readily visible. It could take some time for identifiable symptoms to be noticeable. Much of the damage caused by hypoxia is preventable. If a child suffers brain damage from a lack of oxygen, there is a chance that it was the result of a medical mistake.
Obstetricians and other medical personnel are required to adhere to certain standards of care in order to avoid birth injuries — especially preventable ones. When they fail in their duties to mothers and their children, a medical malpractice claim might be appropriate. It would be beneficial to discuss the situation with a Delaware attorney who regularly practices in this area of law. If evidence of negligence exists, those responsible could be held accountable.
Source: Findlaw, “Birth Injury: Hypoxia“, Accessed on Dec. 16, 2016
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