What nursing practice should be followed regarding the care of an infant?

Assigning care of the infant to the same staff consistently is essential for several reasons. Continuity of care is a fundamental principle in nursing practice, particularly for vulnerable populations such as infants. When the same staff members provide care, they become familiar with the infant's individual needs, preferences, and responses. This continuity helps build a trusting relationship between the caregiver and the infant, which can be comforting and promote better outcomes.

Additionally, consistent caregivers develop a deeper understanding of the infant’s baseline health and behavior, making it easier to identify any changes that may indicate a need for intervention. Familiarity with the infant also allows for more effective communication with the parents, as caregivers can share insights and observations that are relevant to the child's care. Consistency in caregivers aids in reducing the stress and anxiety that can be associated with frequent changes, benefiting both the infant and the family.