A nurse is assessing a postpartum mother who is in the taking-in phase of Rubin's stages of maternal role adaptation. Which of the following behaviors is most indicative of the taking-in phase?

A. The mother begins to take on a more independent role and discusses her expectations for future parenting is incorrect because this behavior is more characteristic of the letting-go phase, when the mother moves beyond self-focus and embraces her new parental role. B. The mother focuses on taking care of her baby and begins to establish a routine is incorrect because this behavior aligns with the taking-hold phase, when the mother becomes more actively involved in infant care and develops confidence in her maternal role. C. The mother starts to exhibit confidence in her ability to care for the baby and takes charge of household responsibilities is incorrect because this also reflects the taking-hold phase, where independence and competence in caregiving become evident. D. The mother is primarily focused on her own recovery and needs is correct because the taking-in phase occurs during the first 24–48 hours postpartum. During this phase, the mother is passive, dependent, and preoccupied with her own physical comfort and recovery, often reflecting on the birth experience. She may be reluctant to make decisions about the infant, needing guidance and support from healthcare providers.