> The real problem then became > legal: if there was a complication of any kind whether anaesthetic, > obstetric or totally unrelated medical problems, the anaesthetist was the > only medical practitioner with his/her name on attached to the patient, and > was being held responsible for the management of any of these problems.
Thankyou, Ian, for your clarification re the prior epidural postings. May I add, in relation to your above comments and the legalities involved with anaesthetics, that having experienced an anaesthetist outlining the pros, cons, risks, etc, of epidural anaesthetic during actual 'transition' (9 and a half cm's) that I would have to query the legality of this sort of informed consent. During the 'informing' I could hardly keep my eyes open, and at times I was actually being sick in a bowl. I signed the form presented by the anaesthetist, but could not tell you what I was actually signing for... Yes, my partner was present, but the anaesthetist aimed the information at me. All I can actually remember is the intensity of the 'talking' - not any of the content. How can this be legally binding? I'm sure many of your clients would be in a similar physical situation - either exhausted through labouring, or in need of an emergency c/section at an advanced stage of labour. Do you feel that the information given to them allows them to make an informed decision that will be legally binding should complications arise? Boy, I know that's a tricky question. Anyway, just wanted to highlight this particular legal issue of epidurals/spinals. I still often think of that anaesthetist and her need to inform me of the risks involved... It just all seemed too late for me to be able to analyse the information in any reasonable way. Birthing Beautifully, Jackie Mawson. Convenor of Birthrites: Healing After Caesarean Inc. Visit our Website at: http://www.birthrites.org Email: [EMAIL PROTECTED] Phone: 61 08 9418 8949 Please note I am not a Professional Healthcare Provider, and all opinions given in this email are not to be taken as medical, or legal, advice. Please seek such advice from the relevant professional service. Email me your postal details for a FREE copy of our quarterly magazine, if you live within Australia - Overseas postage costs are above budget, sorry! Too many Gods; so many creeds, Too many paths that wind and wind, When just the art of being kind Is all the sad world needs... ---------------------------------- -- This mailing list is sponsored by ACE Graphics. Visit <http://www.acegraphics.com.au> to subscribe or unsubscribe.
