A Rh-negative pregnant patient with partner of unknown Rh status would typically receive Rh immune globulin prophylaxis at which times if the newborn is Rh-positive?

• A. Tetanus immunoglobulin
• B. Rh immune globulin (RhIg)
• C. Vitamin K
• D. Hepatitis B immune globulin

Answer: (B)

Preventing RhD alloimmunization in an Rh-negative pregnant patient is achieved with Rh immune globulin prophylaxis. RhIg works by binding any fetal Rh-positive red blood cells that enter the maternal circulation, so the mother's immune system does not become sensitized and produce anti-D antibodies that could affect future pregnancies.

The standard timing is twofold: first, a dose at about 28 weeks of gestation to suppress sensitization during a pregnancy, and second, a dose within 72 hours after delivery if the newborn is Rh-positive to prevent new sensitization from the birth process. In a case where the newborn is Rh-positive, this postpartum dose is essential to protect future pregnancies.

Other immunoglobulin preparations serve different purposes (for example, tetanus exposure, vitamin K for newborn clotting issues, or hepatitis B exposure) and are not used for Rh prophylaxis.