Antenatal prophylaxis with anti-d immunoglobulin

MODULE SUMMARY

Administration of anti-D immunoglobulin to Rhesus D (RhD)-negative pregnant women reduces the morbidity and mortality associated with haemolytic disease of the fetus and newborn (HDFN).1 Recently, NICE advocated non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) to guide the use of anti-D immunoglobulin, and this is gradually being rolled out across the UK.2 This module brings you up to date with the latest guidance.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

After studying this module you should:

• Understand the biological basis of RhD incompatibility
• Appreciate when fetal blood may enter the maternal circulation, thereby ‘sensitising’ the woman’s immune system to produce anti-D antibodies
• Be aware of when and how anti-D prophylaxis should be administered, and the role of NIPT in guiding its use

NEXT STEPS

• Read the clinical review: if you don't have a printed version, click here to download a pdf
• Complete the online assessment
• Receive CPD certificate

AUTHOR(S)

Reviewed by: Jayne Marshall Foundation Professor of Midwifery at University of Leicester FRCM, PFHEA, PhD, MA, PGCEA, ADM, RM, RGN

References provided at the end of this module.

Prescribing information can be found on page 27.

The content of this website is subject to editorial review however you should seek independent validation where required. Content on the website is correct at the time of publishing, and will be reviewed every 2 years aligned to medical best practice.

This learning module can be used towards CPD for revalidation with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).