While considered somewhat routine, there are several complications that can occur during the birth of a baby. Modern medicine allows for the use of several drugs which can be used to both speed the labor process and aid in the mother's comfort. When administered incorrectly, however, these drugs can result in serious and irreversible birth injuries.
A state-run medical facility has settled a medical malpractice lawsuit and agreed to pay $3.75 million. The lawsuit was filed by the parents of a now 5-year-old boy who has numerous health problems including cerebral palsy.
The parents sued the medical facility for medical malpractice following the birth of their son. During the mother's labor, a synthetic hormone called Pitocin was used to strengthen her contractions. The lawsuit contended that hospital staff failed to fully determine how strong the woman's contractions were prior to administering the Pitocin. When administered incorrectly, use of Pitocin has been linked to prolonged delivery and excessive contractions which can result in a lack of blood flow to the unborn baby.
The lawsuit asserts that hospital staff continued to administer Pitocin despite readings showing the woman was experiencing excessive contractions which were causing "significant trauma" to the baby's head. The baby ended up being delivered via C-section after the woman labored for close to 30 hours.
The medical facility contended the baby's brain damage likely resulted from other factors unrelated to his birth. They also asserted that research supporting excessive contractions can lead to brain injuries is unsupported. Despite these denials, the hospital agreed to settle the lawsuit.
Monies recovered will enable the parents to provide for the life-long care their son will need. They are hopeful their story will help raise awareness of the dangers associated with improper use of labor drugs like Pitocin and bring about policy changes within the medical community.
Source: San Francisco Chronicle, "Iowa to pay $3.75 in boy's injuries," July 1, 2012