HESI Maternal Newborn Related

Review HESI Maternal Newborn related questions and content

A nurse is developing an educational program about hemolytic diseases in newborns for a group of newly licensed nurses. Which of the following genetic information should the nurse include in the program as a cause of hemolytic disease?

  • A. The mother is Rh positive, and the father is Rh negative
  • B. The mother is Rh negative, and the father is Rh positive
  • C. The mother and the father are both Rh positive
  • D. The mother and the father are both Rh negative
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'The mother is Rh negative, and the father is Rh positive.' Hemolytic disease of the newborn occurs when an Rh-negative mother carries an Rh-positive fetus, leading to Rh incompatibility. In this scenario, the mother produces antibodies against the Rh antigen present in the fetus, which can result in hemolysis of the fetal red blood cells. Choices A, C, and D do not describe the Rh incompatibility that leads to hemolytic disease in newborns. Therefore, they are incorrect.