What it means
Rh type is checked with the ABO blood type before transfusion and in every pregnancy. If an Rh-negative pregnant person carries an Rh-positive baby, their body can make antibodies that attack the red cells of this or a later baby. Rho(D) immune globulin, given around 28 weeks, within 72 hours after birth and after events such as bleeding or amniocentesis, prevents this.
For the nurse
Check the Rh status of every pregnant client, and give Rho(D) immune globulin to an Rh-negative client as ordered.
At a glance
| Spanish | factor Rh |
|---|---|
| Also written | Rh factors, rhesus factor, Rh status, Rh type, Rh-positive, Rh-negative, Rh positive, Rh negative |
Related terms
blood transfusion
Giving blood, or a part of blood, from a donor into a person's vein.
red blood cell
A blood cell that carries oxygen from the lungs to the body's tissues; also called an erythrocyte.
amniocentesis
A test in which a needle is put through the belly into the uterus to take a sample of amniotic fluid.