Which action can the nurse take to enhance the mother-infant relationship after birth?

Encouraging the mother to help out with simple aspects of her newborn's care plays a significant role in enhancing the mother-infant relationship after birth. By actively involving the mother in her baby's care, the nurse promotes feelings of competency and confidence in the mother. This engagement allows the mother to form a bond with her infant, as she learns to recognize and respond to her baby's needs.

Participating in caregiving activities, even simple tasks like diapering or bathing, fosters a connection, as it gives the mother opportunities to develop her intuition and establish a routine with her baby. This involvement significantly contributes to the emotional ties that are crucial for a healthy mother-infant relationship.

While other practices, such as rooming-in or observing the interaction, can support bonding, direct involvement with the baby's care is often more impactful. It allows mothers to experience the joys of caregiving firsthand, facilitating a stronger emotional connection and sense of responsibility towards their newborns. Thus, this approach directly promotes the development of a nurturing and responsive mother-infant relationship.