The following is a brief introduction to the topic:
RhoGAM, or immune globulin (immunoglobulin), is used as a preventative measure for hemolytic diseases of newborns in Rh-negative moms who gave birth to Rh+ babies. The client in this case had an spontaneous vaginal birth, but the nurse at the hospital reported that she is Rh negative and her baby is Rh positive. The purpose of this paper is to discuss RhoGAM. This includes its administration route, the nursing implications and indications, as well as contraindications.
Route of Administration
RhoGAM can be administered intramuscularly. The recommended dose of RhoGAM for Rh-negative mothers is 300 micrograms (μg) at 28 weeks of gestation and within 72 hours of delivery if the infant is Rh-positive. RhoGAM must be given within 72 hours if a miscarriage occurs or an ectopic pregnancies.
Nurse Implications
The nurses play an important role in administering RhoGAM. Before administering RhoGAM, the nurse should verify the client’s blood type and the infant’s blood type. RhoGAM will not be needed if an infant’s blood type is Rh negative. If the infant is Rh-negative, RhoGAM will not be needed.
The nurse should administer RhoGAM within 72 hours of delivery to prevent the development of Rh antibodies in the mother’s blood. A nurse must also watch for signs of anaphylaxis or other adverse reactions like fever, chills, hives and anaphylaxis. The nurse must stop infusions immediately if an adverse reaction is experienced. They should also notify the provider of the care.
Significations of Use
RhoGAM should be given to Rh-negative mother who has delivered Rh-positive babies. If an Rh negative mother is carrying an Rh positive fetus there’s a chance that she will be sensitized to the Rh antigen at delivery. A maternal sensitization may lead to the production of Rh antibodies that can then cause HDN. HDN may cause severe anemia in the fetus, as well as jaundice and brain damage. RhoGAM prevents maternal sensitization against the Rh antigen.
Contraindications
RhoGAM can be contraindicated for mothers Rh-positive and mothers sensitized already to Rh. RhoGAM is not recommended for mothers who received incompatible blood or have had severe reactions to human serum. RhoGAM must also not be administered to mothers who suffer from thrombocytopenia and bleeding disorders.
The conclusion of the article is:
RhoGAM can be used as an important medication to treat HDN when Rh-negative mothers have delivered Rh-positive babies. RhoGAM must be administered via intramuscular injection within 72-hours of birth. The nurses are crucial in administering RhoGAM. They should verify that the client gave informed consent and confirm the mother’s and baby’s blood type, as well as monitor for any adverse reactions. RhoGAM can be contraindicated for mothers who have Rh antibodies or are sensitized. To ensure that both mother and baby receive the best possible outcome, it is essential for health care providers to know the correct administration and indications of RhoGAM.