Final answer:
For infant oral hygiene, a nurse would instruct the mother to offer the infant sips of water, as it is safe and free from sugars or acids that can damage teeth. Other beverages like cola and juice can lead to tooth decay. While milk is essential for nutrition, water remains the best choice for oral cleaning.
Step-by-step explanation:
When teaching a mother about infant oral hygiene, a nurse will instruct her to offer sips of water to the infant. Water is the safest and most recommended liquid for cleaning an infant's mouth because it does not contain sugars or acids that can harm tooth enamel. In contrast to water, options like cola and juice can contribute to tooth decay, and while milk is nutritious and important for an infant's development, it is not meant for cleansing the oral cavity.
Breast milk provides the necessary hydration and nutrients for infants during the first months of life, including immunoglobulins which help establish the child's immune system. Through breastfeeding, the infant consumes colostrum, transitional milk, and mature milk, which are tailored to their developmental needs. For infant oral hygiene, however, plain water is the best option for offering sips.