Physician's Failure to Administer Antibiotics

During pregnancy, bacteria can be transmitted from the mother to the baby resulting in serious injuries or even death to the newborn. Some bacteria are not active so, in order to detect them, the doctor must conduct appropriate screening.

For instance, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates roughly 25% of all pregnant women carry Group B strep. So the CDC, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists all recommend that pregnant women should be tested for Group B Strep at roughly 35 to 37 weeks. If the mother tests positive, IV antibiotics should be administered during labor. If for whatever reason, screening is not performed at 35 to 37 weeks, IV antibiotics should typically be given prophylactically during labor and delivery for patients who are at high risk. High-risk patients are as follows:

• A mother that experienced a ruptured membrane (water broke) more than 18 hours before delivery.
• A mother in premature labor (before 37 weeks)
• A mother who develops a high fever during labor

If Group Strep B is passed on to the baby, it can have tragic results including cerebral palsy, blindness, seizures, hearing loss, mental deficits, learning disabilities and even death.

If you believe you or your child has suffered an injury that could have prevented with proper medical care, we invite you to call our office and speak with one of our reputable medical malpractice attorneys. Because of his experience, John Day has been certified by the American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys in Medical Malpractice. In addition to his vast experience, his reputation and leadership in the field of medical malpractice has resulted in John being invited to testify before the Tennessee Legislature on recent changes to the State's medical malpractice laws. And to assist with your medical questions and concerns, we employ a staff nurse.

We handle all birth injury cases on a contingency basis so we do not collect a fee unless we recover money for you and your family. Unlike a lot of lawyers, we never ask our clients to assume costly litigation loans. Instead, we advance all case expenses. We are proud of the birth injury case results we have obtained on behalf of families who have been injured by substandard medical care and we would like to help you and your family too. If you would like to discuss a potential claim, please contact us online or call us at 615-742-4880 or 866.812.8787 for a free, no-obligation consultation.