A nurse is caring for a premature newborn whose primary health care provider prescribes iron supplementation. The newborn's parent asks why iron is needed. Which response should the nurse provide?

A. "Iron supplementation decreases the risk of infection.": Iron is essential for hemoglobin production and oxygen transport, but it does not directly prevent infections. In fact, excess iron can sometimes promote bacterial growth, so its primary role is not related to infection prevention in newborns. B. "Iron prevents physiologic jaundice in premature newborns.": Physiologic jaundice is related to immature liver function and increased breakdown of fetal red blood cells. Iron supplementation does not prevent jaundice and is not used as a treatment for bilirubin metabolism disorders. C. "Preterm newborns have reduced iron stores because most iron transfer occurs during the third trimester.": The majority of iron transfer from mother to fetus occurs in the last trimester of pregnancy. Premature infants miss this critical period, resulting in low iron stores and increased risk for iron deficiency anemia, making supplementation necessary. D. "Iron supplementation improves calcium absorption and bone development.": Calcium and vitamin D are primarily responsible for bone mineralization and development. Iron does not play a significant role in calcium absorption or bone growth, so this statement does not accurately explain the purpose of supplementation.