Which of the following does the immunity occurs naturally through the transfer of immunoglobulins across the… - NVS Staff Nurse - 2022

NVS Staff Nurse - 2022

Applied Physiology

Easy

Appeared in: NVS Staff Nurse - 2022

Explanation

The question describes a scenario where immunity is transferred from mother to fetus.
This is a classic example of passive immunity, as the recipient (fetus) is given pre-formed antibodies (immunoglobulins) without its own immune system being actively involved.
Since this transfer occurs naturally through the placenta, it is specifically termed natural passive acquired immunity.
The primary antibody class that crosses the human placenta is IgG, providing vital protection to the newborn.

Option A: An antigen is a molecule (usually a protein) that triggers an immune response. It is the cause, not the effect. The question asks for the type of immunity, not the substance that causes it.
Option C: Active immunity requires the individual's own immune system to be stimulated and produce its own antibodies. This happens after a natural infection or a vaccination, not by receiving antibodies from someone else.
Option D: Innate immunity is the non-specific defense system that a person is born with. It includes physical barriers like skin and general immune cells. It does not involve specific, transferable antibodies like immunoglobulins.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Types of Acquired Immunity as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Understanding passive immunity is crucial for neonatal care. Maternal IgG protects infants from many common infections in the first 3-6 months of life, a period when their own immune system is still developing.
Nurses educate new mothers about the benefits of breastfeeding, which provides additional passive immunity through the transfer of IgA in colostrum and breast milk, protecting the infant's mucosal surfaces.
This concept explains why the vaccination schedule for infants starts at a few months of age. The presence of maternal antibodies can sometimes interfere with the infant's ability to mount their own active immune response to certain vaccines.

How to Approach the Question

First, break down the question stem. The key phrases are 'immunity', 'naturally', 'transfer', and 'placental membrane'.
This points to a process where something related to immunity is passed from mother to baby.
Next, review the options and define each term. 'Antigen' is a trigger. 'Passive immunity' is receiving antibodies. 'Active immunity' is making your own antibodies. 'Innate immunity' is the system you're born with.
Match the process described in the stem to the definitions. The 'transfer' of immunoglobulins (antibodies) across the placenta perfectly matches the definition of 'passive immunity'.
The word 'naturally' in the stem helps confirm it is natural passive immunity, distinguishing it from artificial passive immunity (e.g., an injection of antibodies).
Therefore, 'Passive acquired immunity' is the most accurate choice among the options.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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