Which statement about Rh-isoimmunization in pregnant trauma patients is FALSE?

The statement regarding the negative Kleihauer-Betke test is not accurate in the context of Rh-isoimmunization. The Kleihauer-Betke test is a laboratory test used to detect fetal blood cells in the maternal circulation, which helps assess the degree of fetomaternal hemorrhage. In situations where trauma has occurred, even a negative result does not definitively exclude the possibility of Rh isoimmunization. This is because there may still be a small amount of fetal blood that wasn’t detected by the test, or the test might not reveal all microhemorrhages.

Rh-isoimmunization can occur even with minor fetomaternal hemorrhages and is particularly concerning for Rh-negative mothers carrying an Rh-positive fetus. Therefore, the negative result of the Kleihauer-Betke test cannot conclude that Rh isoimmunization has not taken place since sensitization can occur under various circumstances, including scenarios not captured by the test’s sensitivity.

Additionally, Rh isoimmunization is particularly a concern for Rh-negative pregnant patients, as they are at risk of developing antibodies against Rh-positive blood cells if there is fetal-maternal bleeding. Thus, the identification and management of such conditions are critical in ensuring