A major psychological task for the parents is the process of bonding and attachment with their newborn.

This takes place the first three to four days of postpartum. The practical nurse is in a unique position to observe and offer psychological support and reassurance to the postpartal patient.

This supportiveness can help in correcting negative bonding and reinforce the positive maternal infant adaptations that are the basis for a strong and healthy family relationship. This lesson will focus on the processes by which the psychological needs of the postpartal patient are actually filled.