Anesthesia Birth Injuries Lawyer In Chicago
Last updated on June 23, 2026
Anesthesia is used during labor and delivery to manage pain, perform an emergency C-section, or respond to complications affecting the mother or baby. When administered properly, it can be a safe medical procedure. However, preventable anesthesia errors can place the mother at risk and may also affect the baby’s oxygen supply during a critical stage of delivery.
Attorney Frank Morrissey represents families in Chicago, Illinois, and the surrounding suburbs who believe a birth injury may have been caused by medical negligence. Through Morrissey Legal Group, LLC, he reviews anesthesia notes and delivery timelines to determine whether the medical team acted too slowly or failed to respond to warning signs.
How Can Anesthesia Errors Cause Birth Injuries?
Anesthesia birth injuries may occur when medical providers fail to plan carefully, monitor the mother properly or respond quickly when warning signs appear. Common anesthesia mistakes may include:
- Dosage errors: Too much or too little medication can create dangerous complications during labor or surgery.
- Delayed anesthesia administration: Waiting too long may delay a necessary C-section or other urgent intervention.
- Improper monitoring: Providers must watch for changes in blood pressure, oxygen levels, heart rhythm and fetal distress.
- Failed intubation: During general anesthesia, airway mistakes may reduce oxygen and lead to emergency complications.
- Poor communication: Anesthesiologists, nurse anesthetists, obstetricians and hospital staff must coordinate care during fast-moving situations.
These errors may lead to the following for the child and mother:
- Oxygen deprivation
- Brain injury
- Seizures
- Developmental delays
- Spinal/nerve damage
- Aspiration
- Cardiac arrest
- Severe blood pressure changes
- Surgical complications
These injuries can be difficult for families to connect to an anesthesia mistake without legal and medical review.
Who May Be Liable After An Anesthesia-Related Birth Injury?
Liability may involve more than one provider. For example:
- An anesthesiologist may be responsible for medication or airway mistakes.
- A nurse anesthetist may be involved if monitoring or administration was handled improperly.
- A hospital may be liable for unsafe policies, poor staffing or failure to supervise its medical team.
In many birth injury cases, a claim must be filed within eight years of the negligent act and before the child turns 22.
Book An Appointment Today
If your child was harmed after an anesthesia mistake during labor or delivery in Chicago, attorney Frank Morrissey, through Morrissey Legal Group, LLC, can help you understand your options. Fill out the intake form or call the firm at 312-815-5856 to book a free private consultation.