When caring for an infant, what should the nurse consistently plan to do?

Assigning the care of an infant to the same staff member enhances continuity in care, which is crucial for the infant's emotional and physical development. Consistency in caregivers allows the staff member to develop a deeper understanding of the infant's needs, preferences, and any specific medical concerns. This familiar relationship can help reduce the infant's anxiety and promote a sense of security.

Consistent caregivers are also more likely to notice subtle changes in the infant's condition or behavior, which can be critical for early detection of potential health issues. Moreover, having the same staff member can facilitate better communication and collaboration among the healthcare team, ensuring that the care provided is cohesive and tailored to the infant's ongoing development.

In contrast, frequently changing staff or having multiple caregivers can lead to fragmented care, where important details might be overlooked, and the infant may experience increased stress due to a lack of familiar faces and routines. Thus, the best practice when caring for infants is to maintain consistency in their caregivers whenever possible.