Recently, 14 hospitals joined together to enact safety procedures that could reduce birth trauma brought on by hospital mistakes. The early results are extremely promising, according to Susan DeVore, president and CEO of Premier Inc. Premier Inc. is a “performance improvement alliance” that coordinated the effort through its Premier Perinatal Safety Initiative.
“What we see from the data is that there has been a 25 percent reduction in birth hypoxia and asphyxia, which can cause infant brain damage, a 22 percent reduction in neonatal birth trauma and for just these 14 hospital over just this short period of time, there have been 30 fewer babies that have experienced these harms,” DeVore said.
Premier provided hospitals with a very thorough list of criteria for physicians to follow. One of the “bundles” established by Premier involved the use of oxytocin. Oxytocin is a drug used to slow labor, and it can lead to traumatic situations. Before administering the drug, physicians must:
- Estimate the baby’s weight
- Assess the heart rate
- Perform a pelvic exam
Physicians also had to document each step and monitor contraction rates.
We are glad to see that hospitals are making progress in reducing birth injuries that have permanent consequences for children and their families. Shoulder dystocia, cerebral palsy and autism could result from negligence during childbirth. If your child sustained an injury in the delivery room, call us at 1-800-460-0606. Schedule a free consultation and we can explain your options.
Cappolino Dodd Krebs LLP – birth trauma attorneys
