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Rayner my parade! The importance of specialist advice.
Jemma Brimblecombe
As a lawyer specialising in claims for babies who suffer severe injuries at birth and in the neonatal period, I am extremely saddened that cases are still coming to light where babies are not given vitamin K following birth. Errors such as those highlighted in the recent inquest into the death of seven-week-old William Moris-Patto - where his medical record erroneously stated he had been given the supplement when in fact it had not been administered - are extremely concerning.
The Department of Health recommends that all newborn babies are given a vitamin K supplement. Low levels of vitamin K can lead to problems including brain damage and even death. A failure to give the vitamin after birth, or not to explain properly the importance of vitamin K to parents – who must consent to it being given - could mean there is a medical negligence claim for compensation if a baby suffers injuries as a result of not receiving the supplement.
The coroner in the inquest into William’s death found that the failure to administer vitamin K was a gross failure in medical care amounting to neglect.
Why do newborn babies need vitamin K?
Vitamin K is a group of vitamins that the body needs for blood clotting, which helps wounds to heal. Newborns have low levels of vitamin K and this can lead to bleeding known as vitamin K deficiency bleeding (VKDB). The supplement is offered to all babies straight after birth to help prevent VKDB, until they build up their own supplies. Where healthy babies are given extra vitamin K, it has been shown that the risk of serious bleeding almost completely disappears.
A midwife should provide parents with information about vitamin K. It is then generally for the parent to confirm whether they consent to the baby being given the supplement, usually by injection into the thigh muscle.
VKDB can sometimes be seen in urine or detected externally but there is also a risk of internal bleeding, including in the brain, which can lead to permanent brain damage. Babies born prematurely or delivered by way of forceps, ventouse (suction cap), or caesarean section, are more at risk of developing VKDB, along with those whose mothers took certain drugs in pregnancy.
Providing proper information
It is vital that parents understand the importance of vitamin K and are given full and correct information in order to make an informed decision.
If consent has been given and a baby does not receive the supplement it is extremely likely that a negligence claim can be brought in the event of injury.
Seeking help
Working as I do with the families of babies injured at birth, I understand what an exceptionally challenging time this is for all concerned. For those whose babies have long-term disabilities, much needs to be done to get them the care, equipment and support they need for life. The team at Kingsley Napley is highly experienced in helping families in these situations and getting the maximum compensation.
If you are concerned about the medical treatment that you or a member of your family has received, please contact our friendly and sensitive team for a no obligation discussion.
Medical Negligence and Personal Injury Team
We welcome views and opinions about the issues raised in this blog. Should you require specific advice in relation to personal circumstances, please use the form on the contact page.
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