The direct Coombs' test is done to assess the: a. Maturity of ...

[SO00]

The direct Coombs' test is done to assess the:
 
  a. Maturity of the baby's lungs
  b. Total bilirubin of the baby's blood
  c. Amount of Rh-positive antibodies in the mother's blood
  d. Presence of antibody-coated Rh-positive red blood cells in the baby's blood

Question 2

The purpose of phototherapy is to:
 
  a. Stimulate red blood cell production.
  b. Destroy Rh-positive antibodies.
  c. Reduce serum bilirubin.
  d. Promote vitamin D synthesis.

[atrochim]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
The direct Coombs' test determines whether the infant has hemolytic disease caused by Rh incompatibility by revealing the presence of antibody-coated Rh-positive red blood cells in the baby's blood. An indirect Coombs' test measures the amount of Rh-positive antibodies in the mother's blood.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
High-intensity light decreases bilirubin levels by converting unconjugated bilirubin into photobilirubin, which is transported to the liver where it combines with bile and is excreted in the feces.