Final answer:
If a baby being delivered is Rh-positive to an Rh-negative mother, an immune response may occur that can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN). it can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN), causing anemia and potentially fatal consequences for the baby.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a mother is Rh-negative and the baby being delivered is Rh-positive, an immune response may occur that can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN). During childbirth, fetal red blood cells may enter the mother's bloodstream, causing her immune system to produce anti-Rh antibodies. If the mother has a subsequent Rh-positive baby, these antibodies can cross the placenta and attack the fetal blood, leading to anemia and potentially fatal consequences for the baby.
Rh-negative and the baby being delivered is Rh-positive, an immune response may occur that can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN). During childbirth, fetal red blood cells may enter the mother's bloodstream, causing her immune system to produce anti-Rh antibodies. If the mother has a subsequent Rh-positive baby, these antibodies can cross the placenta and attack the fetal blood, leading to anemia and potentially fatal consequences for the baby.