Because Elva's Rh factor is negative and her first child's Rh is positive,her second child may be at risk for __________________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Elva's Rh factor being negative means that she lacks the Rh antigen on her red blood cells. If her first child's Rh factor is positive, it means that the child inherited the antigen from the father who is Rh positive. During delivery, the mother's and child's blood can mix, and the mother's immune system may develop antibodies against the Rh antigen. If she becomes pregnant again with an Rh positive fetus, the antibodies can cross the placenta and attack the fetus's red blood cells, causing hemolytic anemia, also known as hemolytic disease of the newborn. This condition can cause severe jaundice, brain damage, and even death if left untreated.

Because Elva's Rh Factor Is Negative and Her First Child's