Medical Errors in Pediatrics – Voiceless Victims – UAE Law

Medical Errors in Pediatrics – Voiceless Victims – UAE Law

Medical Errors in Pediatrics – Voiceless Victims – UAE Law

Medical Errors in Pediatrics – Voiceless Victims – UAE Law

Newborns are among the most vulnerable groups in the healthcare system, relying entirely on doctors and nurses for their care and proper treatment. However, medical errors in pediatrics pose a significant threat to their lives, potentially leading to severe health complications or even death. These errors range from misdiagnosis and inaccurate medication dosages to mistakes in neonatal intensive care units.

Types of Medical Errors Affecting Newborns

• Diagnostic Errors:

  Newborns struggle to express their symptoms, making doctors rely on clinical examinations and the mother’s medical history. Misjudgment or reliance on an incorrect diagnosis can result in inappropriate treatment, negatively impacting the child’s health.

• Medication Errors:

  Newborns have a heightened sensitivity to medications, and any mistake in determining the correct dosage or type of drug can lead to severe complications. For example, an overdose of antibiotics may cause kidney or nervous system issues.

• Errors during Delivery:

  These may include improper handling of birth complications, such as oxygen deprivation during labor, which can lead to permanent brain damage. Unnecessary cesarean sections or incorrect use of medical tools, such as forceps, can also cause physical injuries to the infant.

• Errors in Neonatal Intensive Care:

  Premature or sick infants require specialized care in intensive care units. Any mistake in setting up medical devices, such as incubators or ventilators, can result in disastrous consequences.

How Can Parents Protect Their Children from These Errors?

• Choosing a Reliable Hospital:

  Parents should research hospitals with a strong track record in neonatal care and ensure they employ well-qualified and experienced doctors.

• Verifying Medications and Dosages:

  Parents must check the medications given to their children and consult doctors or pharmacists about proper dosages and potential side effects.

• Demanding Medical Clarifications:

  Parents should not hesitate to ask questions about their child’s health and must fully understand all proposed medical procedures before they are carried out.

• Continuous Monitoring of the Child:

  Parents can observe any abnormal changes in their baby’s health and immediately inform medical staff, as early intervention can prevent complications from worsening.

• Seeking a Second Medical Opinion When Needed:

  If there is any doubt regarding a diagnosis or treatment, seeking a second opinion from another doctor is advisable to ensure the best decision is made.

Conclusion

Medical errors in pediatrics, especially those affecting newborns, pose a serious risk that demands attention from both doctors and parents. Although these errors may be unintentional, their consequences can be devastating. Therefore, raising awareness and implementing preventive measures are crucial to ensuring that children receive safe and high-quality medical care.

Attorney / Mohamed Al Marzooqi
Mohamed Al Marzooqi advocates & Consultancy
Lawyer in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Ajman UAE

“Medical Errors in Pediatrics – Voiceless Victims – UAE Law”