Erbs Palsy( Brachial Plexus Injury) is a known complication of shoulder dystocia and is due to traction on the arm that causes stretching of the brachial plexus.
Should an Erb's Palsy result as a consequence of a shoulder dystocia, a medical malpractice suit is inevitable.
The medical record documentation is particularly critical in defending the medical care rendered.
The medical record should reflect timely recognition of the shoulder dystocia.
It is important that appropriate implementation of the maneuvers described last week are done in a timely fashion.
Vital documentation should describe the amount of traction placed if any.
Terms such as minimal or mild or light traction should be used.
Terms such as strong, forceful, significant traction should be avoided.
Never state in the record that uterine pressure was used as opposed to suprapubic pressure.
Uterine pressure is contraindicated.
Erb's Palsy cases are difficult to defend. They are impossible to defend with improper documentation.
