A pregnant woman diagnosed with varicella-zoster at 32 weeks gestation is in active labor. What is the expected action to ensure the newborn's health?

In the scenario of a pregnant woman diagnosed with varicella-zoster at 32 weeks gestation who is in active labor, the choice that highlights the protective role of maternal antibodies is the correct action. A mother who has contracted varicella-zoster during pregnancy can transfer her antibodies to the fetus through the placenta, especially if the infection occurs in the third trimester. This transfer can provide passive immunity to the newborn, helping to protect them from complications associated with the virus after birth.

While the administration of zoster immunoglobulin can be the right course of action under certain conditions, it is typically given to high-risk newborns or unvaccinated individuals exposed to varicella shortly before or after birth. If the mother is already producing antibodies due to her active infection, immediate action may not be required since her antibodies are expected to confer some level of protection to the newborn.

Therefore, in this context, it is understood that the maternal antibodies will help shield the infant, making the statement that no action is needed the most appropriate in this scenario. The timing and nature of the maternal infection are crucial factors, and the passive immunity provided by the maternal antibodies during an active infection leaves the newborn at a less critical risk than if the mother were varic