A nurse is caring for a client who experienced a vaginal birth 12 hr ago. The nurse recognizes the client is in the dependent, taking in phase of maternal postpartum adjustment. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect during this phase?

A. Focus on the family unit and its members: Focusing on the family unit occurs during the taking-hold phase, when the mother begins to assume responsibility for newborn care and actively participates in family adjustment. B. Eagerness to learn newborn care skills: Eagerness to learn and practice care skills is characteristic of the taking-hold phase, which typically follows the initial dependent, or taking-in, phase. C. Lack of appetite: While appetite may be temporarily decreased due to fatigue or discomfort, it is not a defining feature of the taking-in phase of maternal postpartum adjustment. D. Expressions of excitement: During the dependent, taking-in phase, which occurs in the first 24–48 hours postpartum, the mother is focused on her own recovery and may express excitement, talk about the birth experience, and show dependence on others for comfort and basic needs.