RN Nursing · Pathophysiology · Practice question
RhoGAM is administered to Rh-negative mothers during pregnancy to prevent the production of anti-Rh antibodies.
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✓
True
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False
Answer & explanation
Correct: True
This statement is true. RhoGAM (Rho[D] immune globulin) is administered to Rh-negative mothers to prevent Rh sensitization, which could lead to hemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn in subsequent pregnancies. When an Rh-negative mother carries an Rh-positive fetus, small amounts of fetal blood can enter the maternal circulation, particularly during delivery, miscarriage, or procedures such as amniocentesis. Without intervention, the mother's immune system would recognize the Rh-D antigen on fetal red blood cells as foreign and produce anti-Rh antibodies. In a future pregnancy with another Rh-positive fetus, these maternal antibodies cross the placenta and destroy fetal red blood cells, causing potentially severe anemia, hydrops fetalis, or fetal death. RhoGAM works by providing passive immunity — the exogenous anti-D antibodies neutralize any fetal Rh-positive red blood cells before the mother's immune system can mount its own active antibody response. It is typically administered at approximately 28 weeks of gestation and again within 72 hours after delivery of an Rh-positive infant. It must be given with each sensitizing event and each subsequent pregnancy to remain effective, as it prevents active immunization rather than treating existing sensitization.
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