Sometimes, doctors can spot birth injuries right after a baby is born. However, some do not reveal themselves immediately. It may take months or years for some symptoms to appear. By that time, you may not associate your child’s issues with a birth injury. Cerebral palsy and brachial plexus injuries are among the most common birth injuries, and it is important for parents to know the signs to watch for.
If you do not discover your child’s birth injuries for years, you may wonder if you can still file a medical malpractice claim seeking compensation. In most instances, you can. The best way to verify your eligibility is to call our office to speak with one of our knowledgeable Chicago, IL birth injuries lawyers.
How Do Doctors Test for Birth Injuries When a Baby Is Born?
Physicians may use a variety of tests to check a baby’s condition soon after delivery. The Apgar test evaluates breathing, skin color, reflexes, pulse, and muscle tone. A score of 7-10 is considered normal. The Apgar test is usually performed at one minute and five minutes after the baby is born. This fast evaluation can indicate if there are issues with the newborn’s health.