Question

The nurse in the postpartum unit is observing the mother-infant bonding process in a client. Which observation, if made by the nurse, indicates the potential for a maladaptive interaction?

A. Mother cradles and talks to the infant
B. Mother avoids making eye contact with the infant
C. Mother expresses concern for the infant's well-being
D. Mother requests frequent visits from family members

Answer 1

Avoiding making eye contact with the infant indicates a potential for maladaptive interaction, whereas cradling and talking to the infant, expressing concern for the infant's well-being, and requesting frequent visits from family members indicate a healthy and adaptive interaction.

Step-by-step explanation:

If the nurse observes a mother avoiding making eye contact with the infant, it indicates the potential for a maladaptive interaction. Eye contact is an important component of the bonding process and helps establish a connection between the mother and infant. It allows for communication and emotional connection. In contrast, if the mother cradles and talks to the infant, expresses concern for the infant's well-being, and requests frequent visits from family members, these observations indicate a healthy and adaptive interaction between the mother and infant.