A hepatitis B screen performed during pregnancy shows the presence of hepatitis B surface antigen in the mother's blood. Which statement accurately describes the next step?

• A. The results are negative
• B. Hepatitis immune globulin and vaccine will be administered to the newborn infant soon after birth
• C. The client needs to receive the hepatitis B series of vaccines
• D. The results indicate that the mother does not have hepatitis B

Answer: (B)

Preventing mother-to-child transmission of hepatitis B is the priority when the mother tests positive for hepatitis B surface antigen. The newborn should receive both hepatitis B immune globulin (HBIG) and the first dose of the hepatitis B vaccine within the first hours after birth. HBIG provides immediate passive immunity to help neutralize any virus the infant may have been exposed to, while the vaccine starts the baby’s own immune response for long-term protection. Administering both therapies promptly dramatically reduces the risk of vertical transmission, regardless of the mother’s viral status. The inappropriate options don’t address the immediate newborn prophylaxis: the results aren’t negative, the infant isn’t managed by the mother’s vaccination series, and the mother’s status doesn’t negate the need for newborn HBIG and vaccine.