Term Paper Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn

INTRODUCTION

As new generations are being introduced in this world like a chain reaction, the birth of new diseases due to variety of factors such as bacteria, viruses, genetics, and the like, has also been occurring. The most dreadful part is that, these diseases, which often take away the precious lives of individuals, do not exempt anybody from its unexpected attack – even newborns.

One example of which is the Hemolytic Disease of the Newborn (HDN) or RH Disease that is a blood disorder in a fetus or newborn infant which, in some cases, can be life threatening. The development of HDN may occur when there is an incompatibility between the blood types of the mother and her unborn baby. Due to this incompatibility, the mother will produce antibodies that will attack the developing baby's red blood cells.

The researchers have decided to choose HDN among all other health-related topics, particularly the risks that the newborn will be taking in possession of this disease, primarily because of their aroused curiosity and concern regarding the danger it could bring to the infants. They are also fully aware that despite the severity this disease could bring to newborns, there is still inadequate information dissemination about it, putting more lives in great peril.

Furthermore, most of the people in this society, when asked about their knowledge on HDN, evidently portray unawareness on their facial expressions as well as their answers. This is also another reason why the researches have chosen this topic. They want to spread sufficient knowledge, if not much, regarding this disease, for mothers to be warned as early as possible with the fact that they might already be in great danger of acquiring it without even being aware.

Aside from the risks on newborns, which is the focus of this study, the researchers have also included an overview of its occurrence, prevention and treatment, hoping that it could be a great help to everybody – students, professionals or...