The American Academy of Pediatrics National Conference and Exhibition said that those in pediatrics should be on the frontline for addressing neurologic injuries or disorders. Pediatricians should incorporate routine screening for neurologic problems especially after birth and ensure timely referrals. When they do not, error rates soar and injuries occur.
Neurological Birth Injuries
Neurological birth injuries are injuries that affect the brain’s function and lead to brain damage. Oxygen deprivation is the most common neurological injury. Throughout labor, babies are in a vulnerable position. When delivered, oxygen to the baby may be briefly delayed, which presents a danger.
Doctors should monitor fetal distress during labor. However, mistakes happen and babies lose oxygen. This loss of oxygen causes brain damage, which leads to a lifetime of complications. However, if a pediatrician doesn’t diagnosis the brain damage the baby won’t be treated in time. The Journal of Pediatrics estimates the diagnostic error to be at least once or twice each month. Over 50% of pediatricians admit to making errors.
Consequences of Birth Injuries
Birth injuries are serious. Therefore, if you think your child may be the victim of a birth injury, it’s important to track what your child’s symptoms are and to consult a doctor as quickly as possible. Some of the long-term consequences of a birth injury can be lessened the quicker that medical attention is received.
Birth injuries may also lead to additional medical issues, including:
- A long-term decrease in strength and stamina
- Decreased and/or lack of nerve sensations
- Cognitive impairment
- Emotional impairment
- Failure of bones to thrive and develop correctly
- Osteoarthritis and joint dysfunctions
- Emotional and psychological problems
Costs Associated with Birth Injuries
Birth injuries are often lifelong complications that require consistent medical treatment and rehabilitation. Depending upon the severity of the injuries, the financial costs associated with birth injuries can range from several thousand to over a million dollars during the lifespan of a child with birth injuries.
For instance, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the lifetime costs associated with a child who has cerebral palsy (CP) is around $1 million. The costs associated with a child who suffers hearing loss after a birth injury typically ranges around $400,00.
It is important to remember that if your child’s birth injuries are a result of medical negligence and carelessness, the medical staff, hospital, and/or physician may be liable for damages. A complex litigation attorney can help. At The Michael Brady Lynch Firm, our lawyers have decades of experience helping injured people get justice and full compensation for injuries caused negligence. The Michel Brady Lynch Firm regularly takes on the largest corporations in the world with a track record of proven success and results. Therefore, contact The Michael Brady Lynch Firm today, and our attorneys will review your case for free and help you protect your rights. For your complimentary consultation, call our office now.