What is the purpose of the Rh immune globulin injection?

The purpose of the Rh immune globulin injection is to prevent Rh sensitization in Rh-negative women. This is particularly important during pregnancy because if an Rh-negative mother is carrying an Rh-positive fetus, there is a risk that the mother's immune system may produce antibodies against the Rh-positive blood cells. This condition, known as Rh sensitization, can lead to hemolytic disease of the newborn (HDN) in future pregnancies, where the mother's antibodies attack the red blood cells of Rh-positive infants, causing serious complications.

Administering Rh immune globulin during specific times in the pregnancy or shortly after childbirth helps to prevent the formation of these antibodies by providing the mother with passive immunity. This injection effectively neutralizes any Rh-positive blood cells that may enter the maternal circulation, thus preventing the immune response that leads to sensitization.

The other choices relate to different aspects of maternal and fetal health but do not pertain to the function of Rh immune globulin. For example, treating maternal infections, enhancing fetal growth, or inducing labor are all distinct medical interventions unrelated to the prevention of Rh sensitization. Therefore, the correct choice directly addresses the primary function of the Rh immune globulin injection in obstetric care.