Things are only fine until they are not! Personal risk management in the newborn nursery and neonatal intensive care unit

Abstract

Most neonatologists will be named as a defendant in a medical malpractice lawsuit during their careers. Most are until it happens likely poorly prepared for the process. This article reviews common and uncommon situations that can result in adverse outcomes and potential liability for neonatologists and newborn providers and discusses ways to mitigate this risk in advance. The ramifications of a medical malpractice lawsuit and whether to settle the case out of court or going to trial, followed by potential review by the State's Medical Board are discussed. Finally, knowledge of the process before, rather than after it happens, may help to reduce the stress and uncertainty that naturally follows for the individual involved.