In Rh incompatibility management, what is the purpose of administering RhoGAM?

In Rh incompatibility management, what is the purpose of administering RhoGAM?

• A. To prevent neonate jaundice
• B. To prevent antibody formation against Rh-positive fetal blood
• C. To reduce maternal blood pressure
• D. To prevent infection

Answer: (B)

RhoGAM is given to an Rh-negative mother to prevent her immune system from becoming sensitized to Rh-positive fetal red blood cells. It consists of anti-D immune globulin that binds any fetal Rh-positive cells that enter the maternal circulation. By neutralizing those cells, the mother's immune system does not form anti-D antibodies, which could cross the placenta in a subsequent pregnancy and cause hemolytic disease in the fetus. So the main purpose is to prevent antibody formation against Rh-positive fetal blood. It doesn’t directly prevent neonatal jaundice, lower blood pressure, or prevent infection.

RhoGAM is given to an Rh-negative mother to prevent her immune system from becoming sensitized to Rh-positive fetal red blood cells. It consists of anti-D immune globulin that binds any fetal Rh-positive cells that enter the maternal circulation. By neutralizing those cells, the mother's immune system does not form anti-D antibodies, which could cross the placenta in a subsequent pregnancy and cause hemolytic disease in the fetus. So the main purpose is to prevent antibody formation against Rh-positive fetal blood. It doesn’t directly prevent neonatal jaundice, lower blood pressure, or prevent infection.