Is the OASI Care Bundle Project making a difference to the apparently increasing number of women who suffer severe perineal tears during vaginal childbirth?
OASI Care Bundles
The OASI Care Bundle Project, developed by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists in conjunction with the Royal College of Midwives, was introduced in sixteen maternity units in England, Scotland and Wales at the beginning of this year.
This initial test phase has now completed and analysis of results is underway according to The Royal College of Midwives. Outcomes should be published later this year.
The OASI Care Bundle Project recognises the possibility of reducing the rates of severe perineal tears by attempting to introduce a consistency of approach to the care of women undergoing vaginal childbirth.
In addition to encouraging awareness of the impact of severe anal sphincter injuries and improving training of relevant medical professionals, its key interventions during childbirth are as follows:
- To ensure that the woman is fully informed regarding the possibility of obstetric anal sphincter injuries
- To manually support the perineum during the birth
- To make use of an appropriate form of episiotomy if necessary
- To ensure that every woman should have a thorough examination of the perineum, including a digital rectal examination, after giving birth
Anal sphincter injury compensation claims
Over the years here at Glynns Solicitors, we have received hundreds of enquiries from woman who have suffered severe perineal tears during the birth of their child. Many of these have resulted in substantial compensation claims for the pain, suffering and on-going losses of the women affected.
Frequently, the underlying issue, which is fundamental to the success of the claim, is a failure by the medical professionals attending the woman to recognise or adequately repair her severe perineal tear – often referred to as a 3rd or 4th degree tear.
Where a severe tear is accurately diagnosed at the time of the birth and promptly and competently repaired in an operating theatre, the woman affected can expect a favourable outcome and recovery of bowel function.
Problems occur, however, when no repair is achieved or it is inadequately or inappropriately carried out, and the woman develops symptoms of bowel urgency and/or incontinence.
The permanent effects of incontinence care cause such significant effects on the woman’s life that substantial six-figure compensation sums are not unusual, reflecting the woman’s loss of future income due to her inability or limited ability to work.
Speak to a solicitor
If you are suffering with the appalling symptoms of a severe perineal tear following the birth of your baby, you may be able to make a claim for compensation. If there was a failure to recognise, accurately classify or repair your injury, leaving you restricted in what you are able to do, call us to talk to a specialist medical negligence solicitor.
Make A Free Enquiry
If you, or your family member, has suffered a birth injury tear, please call us now for free, no obligation advice on 0800 234 3300 (or from a mobile click to call 01275 334030) or complete our Free Online Enquiry.