Category Archives: Medical
Can Failure to Prepare for an Emergency C-Section Be Medical Malpractice?
An emergency C-section can become necessary with little warning. A baby’s heart rate may suddenly become dangerously abnormal. The umbilical cord may prolapse. The placenta may separate prematurely. Severe maternal bleeding or another obstetric emergency may require delivery before there is time for the medical team to prepare in the ordinary course. In those… Read More
When Communication Failures in the Delivery Room Cause Birth Injuries
Labor and delivery can change rapidly. A baby’s heart rate may suddenly become abnormal. Labor may stop progressing. A mother may develop heavy bleeding, dangerously high blood pressure, or another complication requiring immediate attention. In these situations, the medical team must recognize the problem, communicate it to the right people, and take appropriate action… Read More
Placental Abruption: An Obstetrical Emergency
Placental abruption is a potentially life-threatening pregnancy complication in which the placenta separates from the uterine wall before the baby is delivered. Because the placenta provides the fetus with oxygen and nutrients, a significant separation can compromise the baby’s oxygen supply while also causing potentially severe maternal bleeding. Abruption can therefore become an emergency… Read More
When Delayed C-Sections Lead to Preventable Birth Injuries
A cesarean section can be a critical intervention when complications make vaginal delivery unsafe for the mother or baby. In some situations, physicians may have time to carefully plan a C-section. In others, an emergency develops during labor, and the medical team must act quickly. When warning signs indicate that a baby may be… Read More
Vacuum Extraction Injuries During Delivery
Vacuum extraction can sometimes help complete a vaginal delivery when labor is not progressing or the baby needs to be delivered more quickly. A vacuum device uses a cup placed on the baby’s head to provide traction during contractions and maternal pushing. When appropriately indicated and performed correctly, vacuum-assisted delivery can be an effective… Read More
Klumpke’s Palsy: A Less Common but Serious Birth Injury
Klumpke’s palsy is a relatively uncommon form of neonatal brachial plexus injury that can affect a baby’s hand, wrist, and forearm. Unlike the more familiar Erb’s palsy, which primarily affects the upper portion of the brachial plexus, Klumpke’s palsy involves the lower portion, generally the C8 and T1 nerve roots. Because Klumpke’s palsy is… Read More
Improper Use of Pitocin During Labor
Pitocin is one of the most commonly used medications in modern obstetrics. The synthetic form of oxytocin can help induce labor or strengthen contractions when labor is not progressing adequately. When properly administered and carefully monitored, Pitocin can be an important tool for safely managing labor. However, Pitocin can also create significant risks when… Read More
Understanding the Long-Term Impact of Brain Damage Caused by Birth Injuries
Brain damage caused by a birth injury can change the course of a child’s life before that child has even left the hospital. Some newborns experience relatively mild neurological problems and make substantial progress with treatment. Others suffer permanent brain damage that affects movement, communication, cognition, behavior, learning, and independence throughout their lives. When… Read More
Bedsores and Nursing Home Neglect
Bedsores, also known as pressure ulcers, are one of the clearest warning signs of neglect in nursing homes. These painful wounds often develop when residents are not properly repositioned, cleaned, or monitored. In many cases, bedsores are entirely preventable with basic, attentive care. When they do occur and worsen, they can lead to serious… Read More
How Surgical Errors Lead to Malpractice Claims
Surgery is often performed to improve a patient’s health, relieve pain, or address a serious medical condition. While all surgeries carry some degree of risk, patients in California have the right to expect that surgeons, anesthesiologists, nurses, and hospitals will follow accepted medical standards. When they do not and a preventable mistake occurs, the… Read More