During a clinic visit, the practical nurse (PN) observes an infant sucking on a pacifier that is made from a bottle nipple and stuffed with cotton. What should the PN do?

A. Encourage the mother to use a one-piece pacifier: A pacifier made from a bottle nipple and cotton is unsafe because it can easily break apart, creating a choking or suffocation hazard. A commercially made, one-piece pacifier is recommended for infant safety. B. Tell the mother that pacifiers can cause dental problems: While prolonged pacifier use may affect dental development, the immediate concern is the safety risk posed by the makeshift pacifier, which takes priority over long-term dental issues. C. Compliment the mother for meeting her infant's needs: Although the mother’s intent to soothe the infant is positive, praising the use of an unsafe pacifier could reinforce a dangerous practice. Safety guidance should take precedence. D. Observe infant for difficulty in sucking: Monitoring the infant is important, but it does not eliminate the immediate hazard. Replacing the unsafe pacifier with a safe alternative is necessary to prevent potential injury.