Pitocin

Birth Injuries: A Look at Medical Malpractice with Baltimore Pitocin Lawyer Mark Kopec

Pitocin, a synthetic form of oxytocin, is a powerful medication to induce or augment labor. While it can be a valuable tool in obstetrics, its misuse or poor management can lead to serious birth injuries for both mother and child. The Kopec Law Firm provides this webpage to provide a summary of Pitocin, its risks, and potential grounds for medical malpractice claims. If you or your child has been injured, you may have a birth injury claim and need Baltimore Pitocin Lawyer Mark Kopec.

History of Pitocin

Oxytocin, the natural hormone responsible for labor contractions, has been used in various forms throughout history. In the early 20th century, scientists began synthesizing oxytocin, leading to the development of Pitocin in the 1950s. Doctors widely use Pitocin in obstetrics childbirth practices but there also are concerns about potential bad outcomes.

Who Should Receive Pitocin?

Doctors may consider Pitocin in the following situations:

• Induction of Labor:
  • When pregnancy has gone beyond the due date (post-term pregnancy).
  • In cases of preeclampsia or other medical conditions that endanger the mother or fetus.
  • When the membranes have ruptured (water broke), but labor has not started.
• Augmentation of Labor:
  • When labor contractions are weak or infrequent.
  • To shorten the second stage of labor (pushing).

When and How is Pitocin Administered?

Pitocin is typically administered intravenously (IV) by a healthcare professional, such as a doctor, nurse practitioner, or certified nurse midwife.

• Dosage:
  • The starting dose is usually low and gradually increased based on the mother’s response and the baby’s fetal heart rate.
  • Dosage ranges vary significantly depending on the clinical situation.
• Monitoring:
  • Continuous electronic fetal monitoring (EFM) is crucial to assess the baby’s heart rate for any signs of distress.
  • The mother’s blood pressure, pulse, and contractions are also closely monitored.

What Does Pitocin Do?

Pitocin stimulates the uterus to contract, mimicking the effects of the natural hormone oxytocin. This can help initiate or strengthen labor contractions, leading to the delivery of the baby.

Contraindications to Pitocin Use:

Pitocin is contraindicated in the following situations:

• Prior uterine surgery: Such as a cesarean section or myomectomy.
• Placenta previa or abruption: Conditions where the placenta is in an abnormal position.
• Active genital herpes infection
• Certain fetal conditions: Such as distress or abnormal positioning.

Baltimore Pitocin lawyer Mark Kopec will evaluate the Pitocin administered to you to determine if it was appopriate.

Indications to Stop Pitocin Use:

Pitocin administration should be stopped immediately if:

• The fetal heart rate shows signs of distress.
• The mother experiences abnormal uterine contractions (e.g., hyperstimulation).
• The mother develops high blood pressure or other complications.

Potential Bad Outcomes Associated with Pitocin Use:

• Uterine hyperstimulation: Excessive uterine contractions can deprive the baby of oxygen, leading to fetal distress or even death.
• Ruptured uterus: In rare cases, Pitocin can cause the uterus to rupture, a life-threatening condition for both mother and baby.
• Placental abruption: Pitocin can increase the risk of placental detachment from the uterine wall.
• Fetal distress: Rapid labor induced or augmented by Pitocin can sometimes lead to fetal distress.
• Neonatal jaundice: Pitocin can cause the baby to experience elevated bilirubin levels, leading to jaundice.

Potential Medical Malpractice Claims with Baltimore Pitocin Lawyer Mark Kopec

Medical malpractice claims related to Pitocin use may arise from:

• Improper administration:
  • Failure to monitor the mother and fetus adequately.
  • Administering Pitocin too quickly or at too high a dose.
  • Failing to recognize and respond to signs of fetal distress.
• Failure to obtain informed consent:
  • Not fully telling the mother about the risks and benefits of Pitocin.
• Contraindications:
  • Administering Pitocin despite known contraindications.
• Failure to stop Pitocin in time:
  • Continuing Pitocin administration even when fetal distress or uterine hyperstimulation is evident.

Next Step: Call Baltimore Pitocin Lawyer Mark Kopec

It is crucial to consult with an experienced medical malpractice attorney to discuss the specific facts of your case and determine whether you may have a valid claim.

At the Kopec Law Firm, we have extensive experience helping families of kids with birth injuries. Visit our free consultation page or video. Then contact the Kopec Law Firm at 800-604-0704 to speak directly with Attorney Mark Kopec. He is a top-rated Baltimore birth injury lawyer. The Kopec Law Firm is in Baltimore and pursues birth injury cases throughout Maryland and Washington, D.C.