What nursing action would best facilitate bonding when the mother hesitates to hold the infant?

What nursing action would best facilitate bonding when the mother hesitates to hold the infant?

• A. Comment on the baby's hair while holding the baby.
• B. Ignore the hesitation.
• C. Immediately remove the infant from the mother.
• D. Focus on the feeding schedule instead.

Answer: (A)

Bonding is encouraged through gentle, supportive interactions that invite the mother to engage with her baby without pressure. When a mother hesitates to hold her infant, a nurse can create a low-stress moment by commenting on something observable and pleasant about the baby while the infant is held securely. Noting the baby’s hair, for example, gives the mother a concrete focal point and a natural way to start talking or smiling at the infant. This small, positive interaction helps the mother feel competent and connected, reduces anxiety, and fosters reciprocal signals—eye contact, soothing voice, calm touch—that strengthen attachment. It’s a simple, concrete step that invites participation and warmth without forcing contact. Ignoring the hesitation, removing the infant immediately, or shifting attention to a schedule would miss the opportunity to build emotional closeness and could increase distance or anxiety rather than promote bonding.

Bonding is encouraged through gentle, supportive interactions that invite the mother to engage with her baby without pressure. When a mother hesitates to hold her infant, a nurse can create a low-stress moment by commenting on something observable and pleasant about the baby while the infant is held securely. Noting the baby’s hair, for example, gives the mother a concrete focal point and a natural way to start talking or smiling at the infant. This small, positive interaction helps the mother feel competent and connected, reduces anxiety, and fosters reciprocal signals—eye contact, soothing voice, calm touch—that strengthen attachment. It’s a simple, concrete step that invites participation and warmth without forcing contact.

Ignoring the hesitation, removing the infant immediately, or shifting attention to a schedule would miss the opportunity to build emotional closeness and could increase distance or anxiety rather than promote bonding.