Jury awards $50 million for birth injury

The delivery of a child is an anticipated and anxiety-inducing event for many parents in Louisiana and all over the world. Unfortunately, some infants suffer a debilitating birth injury during delivery. Some are able to recover and lead normal lives, but many are not. Following the conclusion of a recent lawsuit, one family has been awarded a $50 million judgment for the injuries their child suffered during birth.

The child was the first born child for the mother, and she went into labor naturally. According to the lawsuit, the baby’s heart rate decelerated or lowered to dangerous levels multiple times throughout her labor. Despite the heart rate issues, the physician ordered the mother to receive Pitocin, which is an artificial hormone to make contractions stronger. After the Pitocin infusion began, the baby’s heart rate continued to drop, indicating that he was struggling. An order for a non-emergent Cesarean section was made.

According to the lawsuit, the baby was born limp and blue, which was evidence of lack of blood flow during delivery. An MRI later revealed that the baby suffered brain damage and was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. He is not expected to be able to earn a living and needs consistent therapy to improve motor skills. The hospital disagrees with the jury’s decision and plans to appeal the case.

Sadly, birth injuries that may cause permanent damage are not uncommon. Many injuries may be avoided with the right course of medical treatment. Families who are struggling with medical expenses for the necessary care of a child who has suffered a birth injury may find helpful advice after speaking to a medical malpractice attorney in Louisiana.