A 17-year-old client gave birth 12 hours ago and says she doesn't know how to care for her baby. To promote parent-infant attachment behaviors, which intervention should the nurse implement?

A 17-year-old client gave birth 12 hours ago and says she doesn't know how to care for her baby. To promote parent-infant attachment behaviors, which intervention should the nurse implement?

• A. Explore the basis of fears with the client
• B. Provide a video on newborn safety and care
• C. Ask if she has help to care for the baby at home
• D. Encourage rooming-in while in the hospital

Answer: (A)

Addressing emotional barriers to bonding is essential. When a new teen mom feels uncertain and fearful about caring for her baby, the first step is to explore the specific fears she has. By inviting her to share what worries her—such as harming the baby, making mistakes, or not having enough support—the nurse validates her feelings, corrects misconceptions, and tailors guidance to her needs. This helps build trust and confidence, creating a safer, more responsive caregiving environment that promotes attachment behaviors like holding the infant, talking to them, responding to cues, and providing skin-to-skin contact. While information, help at home, or rooming-in can support bonding, they’re more effective once fears are identified and addressed.

Addressing emotional barriers to bonding is essential. When a new teen mom feels uncertain and fearful about caring for her baby, the first step is to explore the specific fears she has. By inviting her to share what worries her—such as harming the baby, making mistakes, or not having enough support—the nurse validates her feelings, corrects misconceptions, and tailors guidance to her needs. This helps build trust and confidence, creating a safer, more responsive caregiving environment that promotes attachment behaviors like holding the infant, talking to them, responding to cues, and providing skin-to-skin contact. While information, help at home, or rooming-in can support bonding, they’re more effective once fears are identified and addressed.