A nurse is reviewing a newborn's chart and notes that the mother is blood type O and the baby is blood type A. Which of the following statements about ABO incompatibility is correct?

A. This option is incorrect because it describes Rh incompatibility, not ABO incompatibility. ABO incompatibility does not depend on Rh status and cannot be prevented with Rh immunoglobulin (Rho(D) immune globulin). Additionally, ABO incompatibility commonly causes jaundice, not just mild anemia. B. This statement is correct. ABO incompatibility occurs when maternal IgG antibodies (anti-A or anti-B), most commonly in a type O mother, cross the placenta and attack fetal red blood cells that carry A or B antigens. This can result in hemolysis, leading to neonatal jaundice and mild anemia. ABO incompatibility is more common than Rh incompatibility, although it is usually less severe. C. This option is incorrect because ABO incompatibility does not require prior blood transfusions or sensitization. Mothers with type O blood naturally have anti-A and anti-B antibodies, which can affect the fetus even during a first pregnancy. D. This statement is incorrect because ABO incompatibility occurs when the mother and infant have different blood types, not the same blood type. Severe hemolysis and kernicterus requiring exchange transfusion are more characteristic of severe Rh incompatibility, not typical ABO incompatibility, which is usually mild and managed with phototherapy.