Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

When should an Rh-negative pregnant woman be vaccinated for rubella?

1. Any time in her pregnancy

2. During the second trimester

3. During the third trimester

4. During the postpartum period

The correct answer is: During the postpartum period

The appropriate timing for rubella vaccination in an Rh-negative pregnant woman is during the postpartum period. This is because rubella is a live attenuated vaccine, and administering it during pregnancy poses a risk of fetal harm. The vaccination is generally administered after delivery, providing protection for future pregnancies. This timing ensures that the woman develops immunity to rubella without jeopardizing the fetus's health. In contrast, receiving the vaccine at any point during pregnancy is contraindicated due to these risks. An Rh-negative status does not change the need to avoid vaccination while pregnant; the focus remains on protecting the mother's future pregnancies and the health of the current fetus.