Maryland Neonatal Sepsis Lawyer
A person of any age can get sepsis—even babies. Neonatal sepsis is a type of blood infection that occurs in babies under 90 days old. While sepsis often occurs while the baby is still in the hospital, during the first week of life, it can occur later on as well.
Sepsis is an infection that damages the body’s own tissues in response to an infection. In newborns, sepsis can cause possible organ failure. Sepsis can lead to septic shock, which is a huge drop in blood pressure. This can cause serious organ problems and even death, which is why quick treatment is necessary.
That’s why adequate monitoring of babies for sepsis is critical when the baby is at risk. Has your baby suffered damages due to neonatal sepsis? If so, seek legal help. The Maryland neonatal sepsis lawyer at Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman can help you file a medical malpractice claim and seek compensation.
Causes and Risk Factors
Neonatal sepsis can be caused by several things, such as the following:
- Bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E coli), listeria, and Group B streptococcus
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV), particularly if the mother is infected
- Infections in the amniotic fluid or birth canal
The following increase a baby’s risk of neonatal sepsis:
- Preterm delivery
- Low birth rate
- The mother’s birth canal is colonized with bacteria
- Premature rupture of membranes
- Infection of the placenta tissues
- Having a catheter in a blood vessel
- Staying in the hospital for an extended period of time
Symptoms of Neonatal Sepsis
The symptoms of sepsis depend on what’s causing the infection, as well as the location and severity. A newborn may have the following symptoms:
- Fetal distress during labor or delivery
- Rapid heart rate
- Fever and other changes in temperature
- Breathing problems
- Poor appetite and other digestive problems
- Enlarged liver
- Nervous system problems
- Drowsiness or trouble staying awake
Sepsis Treatment
Treatment for sepsis needs to happen quickly for best results. There are a few different medications and treatments that can help. They include the following:
- Antibiotics. Antibiotics are typically used as a first line of defense against sepsis, as they can help fight a variety of bacteria. It’s not uncommon to switch to stronger antibiotics to fight a particular type of bacteria.
- Intravenous fluids. Intravenous fluids are also used right away and can help prevent dehydration.
- Vasopressors. These medications can help if your blood pressure is too low. This drug constricts blood vessels to increase blood pressure.
- Insulin. If glucose drops, insulin can help stabilize blood sugar levels.
Contact Us Today
Neonatal sepsis is a serious medical condition that can lead to death if not treated promptly. If your baby has been a victim, make sure you seek legal help.
If your baby did not get proper treatment for sepsis, the experienced personal injury lawyers at Wais, Vogelstein, Forman, Koch & Norman can assess your claim and determine whether or not medical negligence was involved. To schedule a consultation today, call our office at (410) 567-0800.
