What is the purpose of administering Rh immune globulin to Rh-negative mothers after delivery?

Administering Rh immune globulin to Rh-negative mothers after delivery primarily serves to prevent Rh-related hemolytic disease in future pregnancies. When an Rh-negative mother carries an Rh-positive baby (inherited from an Rh-positive father), there is a risk that the mother’s immune system could become sensitized to the Rh antigen during delivery, leading to the production of antibodies against Rh-positive blood cells in any future pregnancies. These antibodies can cross the placenta and cause hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN), a serious condition that can affect the current or future Rh-positive infants.

By giving Rh immune globulin post-delivery, healthcare providers can neutralize any Rh-positive fetal cells that may have entered the mother's circulation during birth. This effectively prevents the mother from developing antibodies that would pose a risk in subsequent pregnancies, thus safeguarding the health of future Rh-positive infants. This preventive strategy is a critical aspect of obstetrical care for Rh-negative mothers.

The other options do not align with the primary objective of administering Rh immune globulin. For instance, it does not treat existing hemolytic disease, promote fetal development, or specifically address maternal blood pressure issues. Instead, its focused function is to prevent immunization against Rh-positive blood.