Connecticut Medical Malpractice: New Maternal Hypertension/Preeclampsia Protocols

With an increase in maternal mortality nationwide, maternal care protocols are in need of an overhaul. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports 76,000 maternal patients and 500,000 infants in the United States die from preeclampsia complications each year.

As of July 2020, The Joint Commission issued new elements of performance that hospitals would be surveyed on in the area of maternal care. Hypertension (high blood pressure) and preeclampsia can be deadly to both mothers and babies if not properly treated. These conditions often present in patients without symptoms. The Joint Commission has issued six performance elements for assessing these conditions in maternal patients. 

1. Detailed steps and procedures for accurately measuring maternal blood pressure.
2. Development of processes and protocols for patients with severe hypertension and preeclampsia.
3. Providing education for staff and patients on preeclampsia and hypertension.
4. Performing severe hypertension and preeclampsia drills.
5. Performing case reviews.
6. Providing education to patients and families.

If you or a loved one was injured, including death, after delivering a baby, contact our firm. Our team is composed of a doctor/attorney, Bob Messey, and a nurse attorney, Gayle Sullivan, who, along with the rest of the firm’s experienced Connecticut medical malpractice team, will conduct an immediate medical and legal investigation into your case.