Question

Which mother is a candidate for the administration of Rho(D) immune globulin (RhoGAM)?

a. An Rh-negative mother with an Rh-negative newborn
b. An Rh-positive mother with an Rh-negative newborn
c. A mother demonstrating the presence of Rh-positive antibodies
d. A pregnant Rh-negative mother who experiences a spontaneous abortion

Answer 1

Rho(D) immune globulin (RhoGAM) is given to a pregnant Rh-negative mother who experiences a spontaneous abortion to prevent the production of anti-Rh antibodies, which could affect future pregnancies with Rh-positive fetuses.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Rho(D) immune globulin (RhoGAM) is a medication administered to prevent hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) in cases of Rh factor incompatibility. The correct answer to the question posed is:

d. A pregnant Rh-negative mother who experiences a spontaneous abortion.

RhoGAM is indicated for Rh-negative mothers to prevent the production of anti-Rh antibodies after being exposed to Rh-positive fetal red blood cells. This can occur during pregnancy, at childbirth, or after events like a spontaneous abortion. An Rh-negative mother with an Rh-positive newborn would also receive RhoGAM after delivery to prevent sensitization that could affect future pregnancies. However, Rh-positive mothers and Rh-negative mothers with Rh-negative newborns do not require RhoGAM, as there is no risk of developing anti-Rh antibodies in these scenarios.