A nurse is caring for a hospitalized child and family using a family-centered care approach. Which nursing action best demonstrates the principle that the family is the constant in the child's life?

A. Limiting family involvement to scheduled visiting hours is incorrect because family-centered care promotes unrestricted or flexible family presence. Restricting involvement contradicts the idea that the family plays a continuous and central role in the child’s life. B. Encouraging the family to follow unit routines without modification is incorrect because family-centered care values collaboration and flexibility. Care should be adapted to meet the needs of the child and family, not force the family to conform to rigid hospital routines. C. Assuming the healthcare team is the primary source of support for the child is incorrect because, in family-centered care, the family—not the healthcare team—is recognized as the primary and constant source of support, comfort, and advocacy for the child. D. Involving the family in care planning and decision-making for the child is correct because it acknowledges that the family is the constant in the child’s life. This approach respects the family’s knowledge of the child, promotes collaboration, and supports continuity of care across healthcare settings.