Hawaii Birth Asphyxiation Lawyers

Trusted Representation for Over 40 Years

Asphyxia, or asphyxiation, is caused by oxygen deprivation and can cause unconsciousness, brain damage, or even lead to a loss of life. During labor and delivery, infants are at risk of asphyxia if they do not receive sufficient oxygen through the placenta or umbilical cord. This can occur as a result of prolonged labor, a delayed C-section, or mismanagement of a complication like shoulder dystocia.

When birth asphyxiation results from medical malpractice or negligence, the family may be able to take legal action against the at-fault doctor, nurse, or medical facility. Davis Levin Livingston is here to properly present such cases, to right these wrongs, and to help injured children get the care they deserve. The Hawaii birth asphyxiation attorneys at Davis Levin Livingston assist clients in Honolulu and throughout Oahu and all of the Hawaiian Islands.

For a free review of your case, call (808) 740-0633 or contact us online. We are always available. 

Why Does Birth Asphyxiation Occur?

Asphyxiation may occur during or after childbirth if there is an early separation of the placenta, if the mother or baby experiences severe infection, if labor is prolonged and difficult, or if too much Pitocin is administered. 

It is up to the attending nurses and doctors to identify signs of fetal distress, which may indicate that the baby is not getting enough oxygen or that other problems may be present. If the nurses and doctors suspect that a baby is suffering from asphyxia, they must respond quickly and properly.

Examples of malpractice that may lead to birth asphyxia may include:

• Failure to monitor a baby during or after delivery
• Failure to respond to fetal distress during labor or delivery
• Failure to recommend a C-section when there are complications during labor
• Delayed C-section
• Mismanagement of shoulder dystocia
• Failure to diagnose macrosomia (a large infant)

Signs and Symptoms

Signs of birth asphyxia in newborns include:

• Low Apgar scores (less than 7 at one and five minutes after birth)
• Poor muscle tone and reflexes
• Cyanosis (bluish discoloration of the skin due to lack of oxygen)
• Weak or absent breathing
• Seizures or abnormal neurological responses

Long-Term Effects

Birth asphyxia can lead to a range of long-term complications, including:

• Cerebral palsy
• Hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE)
• Developmental delays
• Learning disabilities
• Hearing and vision problems
• Epilepsy and seizure disorders
• Respiratory issues
• Multisystem organ failure

Birth asphyxia can lead to a wide array of health problems, many of which require long-term medical, therapeutic, and educational interventions. Early diagnosis and comprehensive care are crucial in managing these conditions and improving outcomes for affected individuals. If birth asphyxia was caused by medical negligence, legal action may help secure the necessary resources to support the child's needs.

Hundreds of Millions Recovered for Our Clients

If your doctor or nurse failed to provide proper care and your child suffered from asphyxia as a result, a Hawaii birth asphyxiation lawyer at our firm can offer assistance. Davis Levin Livingston can investigate your case to determine whether you have a valid birth injury claim and can take the necessary steps to pursue compensation for your child’s complete care.

Call (808) 740-0633 to schedule a free consultation. The attorneys at Davis Levin Livingston are committed to helping you and your child.