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It is now common practice for hospitals to have in place a "protocol" setting out the steps to be followed should shoulder dystocia occur. These steps are as follows:-

  1. To immediately summon the senior assistants because once shoulder dystocia occurs, delivery should be managed by the most senior person available.
  2. To change the mother's position by usually placing her on her left hand side or on her back flexing her hips back onto her abdomen.
  3. To apply supra-pubic pressure ie. to press down externally on the impacted shoulder to try and dislodge it.
  4. To cut a large episiotomy to enable easy access to the birth canal.
  5. To try and rotate the shoulders internally.

An Erb's Palsy injury usually occurs as a result of panic and a doctor/midwife using excessive force in trying to pull a baby out. It is absolutely crucial to use any gentle traction to a baby's head and neck to overcome shoulder dystocia to avoid damage to the brachial plexus.

If you believe that you might have a legal claim relating to Hospital Protocol in the Event of Shoulder Dystocia, please complete the online enquiry form or call 0870 024 0558. Your enquiry will be forwarded to a solicitor who specialises in Hospital Protocol in the Event of Shoulder Dystocia.

If you have any comments in relation to Hospital Protocol in the Event of Shoulder Dystocia, please use the online discussion forum.