Final answer:
The first thing a nurse must assess when teaching a new mother and the family is their knowledge level. This assessment helps tailor an educational plan and supports building an emotional support network by providing targeted information. Option b is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
When teaching a new mother and the family, it is crucial to first assess Knowledge level. This will provide the nurse with a baseline for how much the family knows about child care and the specific needs associated with it.
Understanding the family's knowledge level offers a foundation upon which to build an educational plan tailored to their specific level of understanding and needs. It is an essential part of addressing the family's psychosocial needs, as it helps in establishing an emotional support network by providing information and resources specific to their situation.