A systems-based approach to neonatal care views the baby as what?

A systems-based approach to neonatal care views the baby as an independent being, recognizing that infants have their own unique needs, preferences, and responses to their environment that are distinct from their caregivers. This perspective emphasizes the importance of understanding the infant not merely in relation to their caregivers or immediate context but as an individual with inherent capabilities and characteristics.

By viewing the baby as an independent being, healthcare providers can implement individualized care plans that cater specifically to the infant's health and developmental requirements. This approach encourages the assessment of the baby's behavior, physiology, and cues without solely focusing on their dependency or connection to adults. It promotes a holistic perspective where the infant's individual development and interaction with their surroundings are central to their care, leading to better outcomes in health and development.

In this context, the other choices do not align with the systems-based approach as effectively. Viewing the infant as solely dependent on caregivers or as an extension of the mother confines the understanding of the infant's individuality and does not fully acknowledge their role as active participants in their care and development. Seeing the baby as part of a dyad implies a focus on the relationship with the mother but may overlook the infant's independent identity. Thus, the identification of the baby as an independent being is crucial in adopting