Question

When teaching a class of primigravidas, the nurse explains that while the mother is pregnant, the physician may order a blood test to identify the maternal level of Rh antibodies. This test is called a(n):

a. indirect Coombs' test.
b. hemolytic test.
c. Rh antibody test.
d. direct Coombs' test.

Answer 1

The blood test ordered to identify the maternal level of Rh antibodies during pregnancy is called the indirect Coombs' test

It screens for antibodies against red blood cell antigens and is used to screen pregnant women for antibodies that may cause hemolytic disease of the newborn.

Step-by-step explanation:

The blood test ordered to identify the maternal level of Rh antibodies during pregnancy is known as the indirect Coombs' test.

This test screens for antibodies against red blood cell antigens that are unbound in the patient's serum.

It can be used to screen pregnant women for antibodies that may cause hemolytic disease of the newborn, as well as prior to blood transfusions.