Name of the Procedure:

Common Name: Injection of Rho(D) Immune Globulin
Technical Term: Intramuscular Injection of Rho(D) Immune Globulin, Human, Full Dose, 300 Micrograms (1500 i.u.) (HCPCS J2790)

Summary

Rho(D) immune globulin is a medication that's administered via injection to prevent an immune reaction in individuals who are Rh-negative and may be exposed to Rh-positive blood. This is particularly important during pregnancy and childbirth to prevent Rh incompatibility, which can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn.

Purpose

Medical Conditions or Problems Addressed:

• Prevention of hemolytic disease of the newborn in future pregnancies for Rh-negative mothers exposed or potentially exposed to Rh-positive blood

Goals or Expected Outcomes:

• To prevent the mother’s immune system from producing antibodies that could attack Rh-positive blood cells in any future Rh-positive babies

Indications

Specific Symptoms or Conditions:

• Rh-negative pregnant women during and after delivery of an Rh-positive baby
• Rh-negative individuals exposed to Rh-positive blood through transfusions or accidents

Patient Criteria:

• Confirmed Rh-negative blood type
• Potential or actual exposure to Rh-positive blood

Preparation

Pre-procedure Instructions:

• No specific fasting or preparation required
• Inform the healthcare provider of any allergic reactions or previous adverse reactions to blood products

Diagnostic Tests:

• Blood typing to confirm Rh status

Procedure Description

1. Patient Positioning: The patient is usually seated or lying down.
2. Site Preparation: The skin at the injection site (typically the deltoid muscle) is disinfected.
3. Administration: Using a sterile syringe and needle, 300 micrograms (1500 i.u.) of Rho(D) immune globulin is injected intramuscularly.
4. Post-Injection: Monitor the patient for a brief period to ensure there are no immediate adverse reactions.

Tools and Equipment:

• Syringe and needle
• Disinfectant swab

Anesthesia or Sedation:

• Not typically required

Duration

• The procedure takes approximately 5-10 minutes from preparation to completion.

Setting

• Hospital, outpatient clinic, or doctor’s office

Personnel

• The injection is typically administered by a nurse or a qualified healthcare provider.

Risks and Complications

Common Risks:

• Injection site reactions (pain, redness, swelling)

Rare Risks:

• Allergic reactions (hives, difficulty breathing)
• Fever
• Nausea
• Headache

Management of Complications:

• Allergic reactions can be treated with antihistamines or corticosteroids as necessary.

Benefits

• Prevents the development of antibodies against Rh-positive blood cells in Rh-negative individuals
• Reduces the risk of hemolytic disease in future Rh-positive babies

Recovery

Post-procedure Care:

• Keep the injection site clean and dry
• Report any unusual symptoms to a healthcare provider immediately

Expected Recovery Time:

• No downtime is typically required; normal activities can usually be resumed immediately.

Restrictions or Follow-up:

• Follow-up with healthcare provider as recommended, especially if any adverse reactions occur

Alternatives

Other Treatment Options:

• None as effective for this specific prevention; Rho(D) immune globulin is the standard preventive treatment for Rh incompatibility.

Pros and Cons of Alternatives:

• No alternatives offer the same level of effective prevention for Rh incompatibility-related hemolytic disease.

Patient Experience

During the Procedure:

• Mild discomfort or brief pain at the injection site

After the Procedure:

• Minor soreness at the injection site which usually resolves within a few days
• Pain management can be handled with over-the-counter pain relief if necessary.

Comfort Measures:

• Applying a cold pack to the injection site can help alleviate soreness.