The birth of a child should be a joyous occasion, but when medical errors occur during labor and delivery, the consequences can be devastating. Hypoxic Ischemic Encephalopathy (HIE) and cerebral palsy are life altering diagnoses that often leave parents wondering, “Did something go wrong during labor?” In many cases, the answer lies in two critical areas, fetal heart monitoring and the misuse of Pitocin. When the monitor is ignored and pitocin is misused, a baby can suffer for life, and understanding these failures can help families seek answers and justice.
The Critical Role of Fetal Heart Monitoring
Electronic fetal monitoring is designed to provide real time insight into how a baby is handling labor. It tracks heart rate patterns, responding to contractions, and alerts medical teams to signs of distress. However, when warning signs like late decelerations, minimal variability, or tachycardia are overlooked, the results can be catastrophic. In some cases, these patterns persist for hours without intervention, leaving the baby vulnerable to oxygen deprivation. By the time severe bradycardia (a dangerously low heart rate) occurs, irreversible brain damage may have already happened.
The Dangers of Pitocin Mismanagement
Pitocin, used to induce or strengthen contractions, can be a helpful tool, but only when used carefully. When administered too aggressively or without adjusting for signs of fetal distress, it can lead to uterine tachysystole (excessively frequent contractions). This deprives the baby of recovery time between contractions, worsening oxygen deprivation. Tragically, many birth injuries occur because medical staff fail to reduce or stop Pitocin despite clear warning signs on the fetal monitor.
When The Monitor Is Ignored And Pitocin Is Misused A Baby Can Suffer For Life
The combination of poor fetal monitoring and Pitocin misuse is a recipe for disaster. Families are often left grappling with the aftermath, questioning whether their child’s injury was preventable. A thorough review of medical records, including fetal monitor strips, nursing notes, and Pitocin dosing, can reveal whether negligence played a role. When the monitor is ignored and pitocin is misused, a baby can suffer for life, and no family should have to face this reality without answers. If something feels wrong about your child’s delivery, trust your instincts and seek the truth.
To speak with me further regarding your baby’s HIE and CP diagnosis you can contact me at my information below. Remember it does not cost you any money to initially speak with me about your baby’s story.
Marcus B. Boston, Esq.
9701 Apollo Dr. Suite 100
Largo, Maryland 20774
301-850-4832
1-833-4 BABY HELP
