Final answer:
To begin the Baby-friendly Hospital Initiative, a hospital RD should first establish a multidisciplinary task force to create an implementation plan that facilitates the adoption of breastfeeding best practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
A hospital Registered Dietitian (RD) attempting to implement the Baby-friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI) should first form a multidisciplinary task force to develop an implementation plan. This task force would ideally include health care providers from various disciplines who can contribute diverse perspectives and expertise to the planning process. It is crucial for the successful adoption of BFHI principles which focus on promoting and supporting breastfeeding as the best nutrition practice for newborns. The formation of this team is a foundational step that will inform subsequent actions, such as staff training on breastfeeding benefits, investigating rooming-in feasibility, and communicating the initiative to all staff members. By working collaboratively, the task force can address potential challenges and ensure that the necessary resources and policies are in place to support breastfeeding mothers and their babies.