Which action should a nurse take to facilitate bonding between a father and his newborn?

Encouraging bonding between a father and his newborn is essential for the emotional development and attachment of both the parent and child. Highlighting that the newborn turns toward the father's voice is an effective way to facilitate bonding because it demonstrates the infant's recognition of the father's presence and voice. This innate response signals the newborn's interest and attraction to the father's sounds, fostering an early connection and encouraging the father to engage more actively with the child.

When a father observes his newborn responding positively to his voice, it can enhance his feelings of competence and involvement in the caregiving process. This interaction promotes physical closeness and emotional attachment, which are vital during the early stages of the newborn's life.

The other options do not directly emphasize the response and engagement of the infant, which are critical to bonding. For instance, while laying the baby beside the father while sleeping might promote physical closeness, it carries risks such as accidental suffocation and does not actively engage the father's participation in the bonding process. Asking the father about his concerns can be helpful for understanding emotions but does not immediately promote bonding. Demonstrating swaddling could assist in learning care techniques but lacks the direct interaction that enhances emotional connection.