A 30-year-old Rh-negative pregnant woman is at 17 weeks gestation and has an Rh-positive partner. She has had no prior sensitization. She asks the nurse when she will receive Rho(D) immune globulin. Which of the following is the best response?

A. This is incorrect because Rho(D) immune globulin is not given only after delivery. It is routinely administered during pregnancy to prevent Rh sensitization that can occur from fetal–maternal blood mixing before birth. B. This is incorrect because Rho(D) immune globulin is not given monthly. Routine administration occurs once at approximately 28 weeks of gestation and again postpartum if the newborn is Rh-positive. C. This is correct because an Rh-negative, unsensitized pregnant woman should receive Rho(D) immune globulin at 28 weeks of gestation and within 72 hours after delivery if the infant is Rh-positive. This prevents the mother from forming antibodies against Rh-positive red blood cells. D. This is incorrect because Rho(D) immune globulin is needed during the first pregnancy and any subsequent pregnancies if the mother is Rh-negative and unsensitized. Sensitization can occur during any pregnancy, not just after the second.