Administration of immunoglobulin is an example of?

PGIMER Sangrur NO - 2023

Microbiology

Easy

Appeared in: PGIMER Sangrur NO - 2023

Explanation

Passive acquired immunity involves providing pre-formed antibodies from an external source, such as an injection of immunoglobulin.
It is termed 'passive' because the recipient's immune system does not actively produce the antibodies.
It is 'acquired' or 'artificial' because it is administered through a medical intervention, not a natural process like maternal transfer.
This method provides immediate but temporary protection, as the body does not create its own immunological memory.

Option A: Active natural immunity requires the body to produce its own antibodies in response to a natural infection. Administering immunoglobulins is providing external antibodies, not stimulating production.
Option B: Active acquired immunity is induced by vaccination, where an antigen is introduced to stimulate the body's immune system to produce its own antibodies. Immunoglobulin administration bypasses this process.
Option C: Passive natural immunity involves the transfer of antibodies through natural means, specifically from mother to child. Administration of immunoglobulin is an artificial medical procedure.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Types of Immunity (Active vs. Passive, Natural vs. Acquired) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses frequently administer immunoglobulins for post-exposure prophylaxis (e.g., for rabies, tetanus, or hepatitis B) to provide immediate protection to high-risk, unvaccinated, or immunocompromised individuals.
Patient education is a key nursing responsibility. Nurses must explain that the protection from immunoglobulins is temporary and does not replace the need for active vaccination for long-term immunity.
What if? If the patient were receiving a vaccine (e.g., tetanus toxoid) instead of an immunoglobulin, the immunity would be 'Active Acquired'. It would take longer to develop (weeks) but would provide long-lasting protection through memory cell formation.

How to Approach the Question

First, analyze the keywords in the question: 'administration of immunoglobulin'.
Break down the concept of immunity into two pairs: Active vs. Passive and Natural vs. Acquired.
Ask: Is the body making its own antibodies or receiving them? Receiving them ('immunoglobulin') means it is 'Passive'. This eliminates 'Active' options.
Ask: Is the transfer happening naturally or through a medical procedure? 'Administration' implies a medical procedure, so it is 'Acquired' (or artificial). This eliminates 'Natural'.
Combine the two parts: 'Passive' + 'Acquired'. This leads directly to the correct option, 'Passive acquired immunity'.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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