Which practice is promoted to optimize family-centered care after birth?

Which practice is promoted to optimize family-centered care after birth?

• A. Complete separation of mother and infant for 24 hours
• B. Shortened rooming-in
• C. Extended contact through rooming-in
• D. Delayed initiation of breastfeeding

Answer: (C)

Family-centered care after birth is about keeping the newborn and family together to support bonding, parental involvement, and effective feeding. Extended contact through rooming-in means the baby stays in the same room with the parent around the clock during the hospital stay, allowing on-demand feeding, constant cue-reading by the parent, and active participation in routine care with support from health staff. This continuous closeness strengthens mother–infant bonding, promotes successful initiation and continuation of breastfeeding, boosts parental confidence, and reduces anxiety. Separated care, limited rooming-in, or delaying breastfeeding disrupts bonding opportunities and delays the benefits that come from early, facilitated breastfeeding.