U.S. Ranks 41st in Newborn Survival
According to a study reviewing 20 years of data from all 193 member nations of the World Health Organization, the United States now ranks 41st in terms of newborn survival, compared to its rank of 28 in 1990. The newborn death rate in the United States currently sits at 4.3 per 1,000 live births. Sometimes newborn death results from medical malpractice, just as birth injuries often result from medical errors or negligence. Babies who experience birth trauma are at risk of developing hydrocephalus, cerebral palsy, autism and other diseases, and they may require lifelong care or die in their infancy or childhood. When a medical mistake results in an infant’s birth injury or death, an experienced cerebral palsy attorney may be able to help.
Why Is the United States Ranked 41st?
According to one of the study’s researchers, Dr. Joy Lawn of Save the Children, the ranking decline does not indicate worsening newborn care in the U.S. Rather, the U.S. has been failing to make progress like other countries, as evidenced by the 26 percent decline in infant mortality over the past 20 years in the U.S. versus the global decline of 28 percent. Researchers also point to the number of preterm deliveries in the U.S.-where one in eight babies are born premature-as a factor affecting the nation’s ranking. The study identified preterm delivery as one of the three leading causes of newborn death, along with asphyxia and severe infections, so it stands to reason that a high number of premature births may increase a country’s infant mortality rate.
Preventing Infant Death and Birth Injury
Expectant mothers can take the following steps to minimize their baby’s risk of birth defect or death:
- Check the qualifications of your obstetrician
- Seek prenatal care early
- Take prenatal vitamins as recommended by your healthcare provider
- Eat a healthy diet and consult your healthcare provide about foods you should avoid or questionable foods and drinks
- Promptly seek medical advice if you become ill during your pregnancy
- Check with your healthcare provider before taking any over-the-counter or prescription medications while pregnant
- Pre-register with the hospital to avoid paperwork when you’re in labor
- Track your baby’s movement during different times of the day and alert your doctor to any decreased fetal movement
Hospitals and healthcare providers can also take steps to reduce the chances of an infant sustaining a birth injury or dying during labor or delivery, including:
- Monitoring mother and baby during labor and delivery with equipment that is kept in good working condition
- Properly administering drugs, using correct dosages and monitoring mother and baby for any drug-related complications
- Not delaying when a cesarean section becomes necessary
- Using forceps, vacuum extractors and other delivery equipment properly
- Acting quickly when a baby requires resuscitation
- Anticipating bleeding and treating bleeding quickly and effectively
- Observing all current standards of practice
When an infant sustains a birth injury or dies during birth as a result of negligence or medical error, the parents may be entitled to compensation. If you believe your baby’s injury or death may have resulted from medical malpractice, contact a qualified cerebral palsy lawyer to discuss your case today.
