Medical malpractice lawsuit results in $130 million judgment

Many Louisiana mothers have likely experienced the unexpected surprise of an earlier than planned delivery of a child. Understandably, mothers and physicians worry about the health of a child following a premature birth, but many babies are able to survive and thrive. One mother in another state experienced her own surprise with the early delivery of her child, but her child initially appeared to be healthy. In the weeks and months following the birth, the woman claims medical malpractice resulted in a life-long condition for her child. Recently, a civil court jury agreed.

Shortly after the baby’s birth, the infant boy was diagnosed with a condition called hydronephrosis that caused his kidneys to swell. Additional exams and tests aided physicians in the conclusion that the child was suffering from lupus. At 2 months old, physicians ordered a renal scan, which involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material into an individual to evaluate the kidneys in close detail. Unfortunately, shortly after the intravenous line and the solution were started, the baby turned blue.

The mother claimed the situation was not handled effectively. She alleged that no official code was called, the baby’s pulse was not taken and chest compressions were not performed. Rescue breaths were given, but the baby suffered brain damage due to lack of oxygen in the crisis. The baby is now diagnosed with cerebral palsy, which is a lifelong condition. A jury agreed with the mother’s claims of medical malpractice and awarded the family $130 million.

Unfortunately, when a baby suffers harm from medical malpractice, families bear the burden of coordinating and financing medical care. Families who are stressed may find hope after discussing options for legal recourse with a Louisiana medical malpractice attorney. Many families who have navigated successful claims find that the monetary damages awarded are helpful in providing the necessary care for an injured child.