The process of childbirth is already very traumatizing. A woman has to bear extreme pain and discomfort while bringing a life to this world. In this moment of extreme pain, if the doctor shows negligence, it can have serious repercussions for the mother and baby’s life. If you or your loved one has faced such an atrocity by the doctor, it is time to consult a personal injury lawyer.
Mother and child have some legal rights when they face negligence in healthcare. Here is what you should do if you or your loved one gets injured during childhood due to the negligence of the obstetrician.
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
When you and your baby face serious negligence by the obstetrician that has led to severe injury, you should prioritize the health of both mother and newborn. Make sure that you seek immediate medical attention from another doctor.
You should not delay the matter as it may risk the life of the mother and baby. Immediate medical attention from another doctor can ensure that you and your baby’s life is secured first.
2. Ensure Complete Documentation
You should make sure that you document the entire process. Proper documentation can ensure that you have enough support for a legal case. Moreover, timely documentation can ensure that you do not forget or miss any important information.
Make sure that you keep the medical record from your previous obstetrician safe. Record their behavior and gather witnesses if you can. For instance, you can ask nurses or hospital staff to speak up for you against a doctor’s negligence.
3. Seek Professional Consultation
You should get a second opinion from another doctor. Consultation from a medical professional will give your stance support that negligence has been shown by the doctor.
Your new doctor will give a detailed checkup to the mother and baby and review the case. Moreover, they can make you familiar with the professional terms and standards of practice that can help you with the case.
4. Report The Incident
You should immediately report the incident to the relevant medical and regulatory authorities. Make sure that you contact the hospital authorities where you gave birth.
You should also consult the local medical licensing authority to take legal action and start an investigation against the obstetrician involved in malpractice.
5. Gather All The Evidence
You should make sure that you keep all the evidence secure in proper documentation form. Gather all the evidence relevant to the case.
Make sure that you talk to the eyewitnesses for their statements, and take pictures of the test reports and other evidence that can support your legal action.
6. Hire An Expert Lawyer
You should make sure that you hire an expert lawyer who has significant expertise in medical malpractice cases. An experienced lawyer can help you understand the technicalities of the case.
Moreover, when you hire a lawyer who has considerable knowledge about the relevant laws, he will ensure that you pursue the case in the right way.