During feedings, how does the nurse's interaction with the infant contribute to better feeding outcomes?

The interaction between the nurse and the infant during feedings plays a significant role in fostering a positive feeding experience, and this is particularly true in terms of enhancing the social aspect that contributes to bonding. When nurses engage with infants—through gentle talking, eye contact, or soothing touches—this not only comforts the infant but also stimulates emotional connections. This bonding is crucial for the infant's overall development, as secure attachments can lead to better physical and emotional health outcomes.

Furthermore, positive interactions during feeding can create a more relaxed environment, allowing the infant to feed more effectively and efficiently. This nurturing approach supports the infant's psychological well-being, which can also impact their willingness to feed and their ability to latch properly, thus facilitating better nutritional intake.

While other options may present various aspects of a feeding interaction, they do not capture the central importance of the social and emotional bonding that enhances the feeding experience.