Neonatology and the Law

Neonatologists are at particular risk for malpractice. Among the medical legal issues specific to clinical neonatology are newborn resuscitation, brain injury in the newborn, hyperbilirubinemia, and group B streptococcal infection. Neonatologists can minimize the risk of malpractice by maintaining competency, honing communication skills, and maintaining detailed and timely documentation.