How Medical Negligence Can Lead to Cerebral Palsy in Newborns

Cerebral palsy in infants can often result from inadequate medical care during pregnancy, childbirth, or shortly after delivery. Medical professionals failing to monitor or address complications such as fetal distress, hypoxia (oxygen deprivation), infections like meningitis, or untreated jaundice can lead to life-long conditions like cerebral palsy.

Types of Compensation Available for Cerebral Palsy Claims

Families affected by cerebral palsy due to medical negligence may pursue compensation to alleviate the financial and emotional burdens associated with the care and support of the affected child. The compensation is typically categorized into general and special damages.

General Damages:
– Pain and suffering experienced by the child
– Loss of enjoyment of life due to limited mobility
– Psychological impact on the child and family (e.g., stress, anxiety, grief)

Special Damages:
– Cost of ongoing medical treatment and therapies (e.g., physical, occupational, and speech therapy)
– Special education and educational support requirements
– Assistive technology and equipment (e.g., wheelchairs, communication devices)
– Modifications to the home (e.g., ramps, accessible bathrooms)
– Transport expenses for medical visits and therapeutic sessions
– Loss of income for parents becoming full-time caregivers
– Future care needs and adaptations as the child grows

How to Check Eligibility for a Cerebral Palsy Compensation Claim

If you suspect that your child’s cerebral palsy diagnosis resulted from medical negligence, FreeClaimCheck.co.uk can help assess your eligibility to make a cerebral palsy related medical negligence claim. Our AI-powered free claim assessment can evaluates your child’s claim potential in minutes at anytime and provide guidance on the next steps without any obligation to proceed with a claim.

→ Check Your Claim In Minutes >

Medical Conditions and Errors Leading to Cerebral Palsy Claims

1. Inadequate Heart Rate Monitoring During Labor

Failure to monitor and act upon signs of fetal distress, such as an irregular heart rate, can lead to oxygen deprivation. If prolonged, hypoxia may result in brain damage and cerebral palsy.

2. Delayed Diagnosis and Treatment of Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE)

HIE occurs when the infant’s brain doesn’t receive enough oxygen and blood. Early detection and intervention are crucial, and any delay can cause permanent brain damage leading to cerebral palsy.

3. Mismanagement of Jaundice

Severe jaundice can lead to kernicterus, where high levels of bilirubin cause brain damage. Timely treatment via phototherapy or exchange transfusion is vital to prevent cerebral palsy.

4. Undiagnosed Infections

Intrauterine or neonatal infections, like meningitis or Group B strep, require prompt diagnosis and treatment. Failure to do so can lead to encephalitis, causing cerebral palsy.

5. Traumatic Birth Injuries

Improper use of delivery tools like forceps or vacuum extractors can cause brain injury. Medical professionals must exercise caution to prevent physical trauma that may lead to cerebral palsy.

6. Birth Asphyxia Negligence

If healthcare providers don’t act quickly to resolve complications causing reduced oxygen supply to the baby during birth, the resultant asphyxia can lead to cerebral palsy.

7. Failure to Perform a Timely Cesarean Section

Instances like placental abruption, umbilical cord prolapse, or prolonged labor may necessitate an emergency C-section. Delays can lead to cerebral palsy if childbirth complications aren’t addressed.

Is your child eligible for cerebral palsy claim for compensation?

Watch the 60-second video below to find out how you can check in minutes if your child is eligible to make a cerebral palsy claim for compensation.