Final answer:
HDN is a potential risk when a mother is Rh-D negative and the baby is Rh-D positive. In this case, maternal antibodies may harm the Rh+ red blood cells of the fetus. Prevention includes administering Rho(D) immune globulin to the Rh-negative mother during and after pregnancy. the correct option is a. Mom is Rh-D negative ; Baby is Rh-D positive.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn:
Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn (HDN) is a type II hypersensitivity reaction that can occur when there is an incompatibility between the Rh factors of the mother and the fetus. The choice that could result in HDN is when the Mom is Rh-D negative; and the Baby is Rh-D positive. This is because maternal anti-Rh antibodies can cross the placenta and target the fetal Rh+ red blood cells for destruction, leading to anemia.
To prevent HDN, Rho(D) immune globulin is given during and after pregnancy to Rh-negative mothers with an Rh-positive fetus. This prophylactic treatment is essential to prevent the mother from producing anti-D antibodies that would be harmful in a subsequent Rh-positive pregnancy.
The societal impact of HDN was significant before the intervention with Rho(D) immune globulin, as it was a common cause of infant mortality. Now, with preventive treatment, the instances of HDN have been greatly reduced.