postnatal care of mother and baby

 Perineal trauma assessment and repair (1st–4th degree tears, OASI)

Our professional expertise spans assessment and management of perineal trauma, including assessment and escalation for obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASI). We analyse clinical notes and practices surrounding the recognition, repair, and aftercare of perineal tears, assessing whether correct standards and protocols were met.

 Postpartum haemorrhage management

We can review midwifery care in cases featuring excessive bleeding post-delivery. Our specialist knowledge covers identification of risk factors, adequacy of response, treatment, and escalation of haemorrhage to prevent further harm or maternal death. We can review haemorrhage in homebirth and hospital birth scenarios.

 Neonatal resuscitation and immediate newborn care

Our midwifery expert witnesses scrutinise the appropriateness of resuscitation actions by midwives taken at birth. With a thorough understanding of resuscitation protocols, equipment use, and escalation pathways, we can review all elements of neonatal resuscitation by midwives – home and hospital birth scenarios.

 Newborn physical examination (NIPE)

Accurate newborn examination is crucial for early identification of congenital abnormalities and other conditions or concerns. We carefully review documentation and practice surrounding the NIPE, providing insight into whether examinations by midwives were completed properly and within required timeframes. We can comment on whether the appropriate referrals were made for any identified concerns or deviations from the norm.

 Recognition of neonatal jaundice, sepsis, or hypoglycaemia

Early detection and treatment of jaundice, sepsis, or low blood sugar can be life-saving. We use clinical expertise to determine whether warning signs were missed, delayed, or inappropriately managed in both hospital and community settings. We can assess whether the neonate was receiving the appropriate level of postnatal care and observation.

 Postnatal maternal care: blood pressure monitoring, wound care, infection recognition, VTE assessment

Ensuring ongoing maternal wellbeing after birth is a core midwifery duty. Our expert witnesses investigate whether postnatal checks, wound care, blood pressure monitoring, and infection recognition and all other elements of postnatal care were conducted in accordance with guidelines, and whether any deviation contributed to harm.

 Maternal death inquiries

We can also be relied on for independent expert evidence where a maternal death has occurred. Our senior midwifery experts investigate case records, risk assessments, and policy compliance, helping solicitors establish facts and root causes with objectivity.

Hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) and brain injury claims

HIE and other neonatal brain injuries have life-changing consequences. At Kelly Parker Medicolegal Midwifery Experts, we conduct thorough reviews of all elements of care including intrapartum management, CTG monitoring and management, resuscitation efforts, and escalation to provide clear expert reports for these sensitive, high-value cases.