When is Rh-negative globulin administered to a mother?

Rh-negative globulin, commonly referred to as Rho(D) immune globulin, is administered to a mother primarily to prevent Rh immunization, which can occur if the mother is Rh-negative and the fetus is Rh-positive. If fetal blood cells enter the mother's circulation, her immune system might produce antibodies against the Rh-positive blood cells. This can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn in current and future pregnancies.

The administration of Rh-negative globulin is typically done around the 28th week of pregnancy and also after delivery if the baby is determined to be Rh-positive. This preventative measure ensures that the mother does not produce antibodies that could harm the fetus, particularly in subsequent pregnancies where the fetus may also be Rh-positive.

In contrast, if the mother is already Rh-positive, there is no risk of her developing Rh antibodies, hence administering Rh-negative globulin would be unnecessary. Gestational hypertension does not impact the indication for Rho(D) immune globulin. Lastly, a request alone from the mother does not justify the administration of the medication without the specific clinical indication. Thus, the correct indication for administering Rh-negative globulin is when the fetus is Rh-positive.