Which of the following should the nurse emphasize to the parents visiting a neonate with cleft lip and palate?

Emphasizing the neonate's normal characteristics is crucial for parents visiting a neonate with cleft lip and palate because it helps to alleviate anxiety and promote positive bonding. Parents may feel concerned about their child's appearance or the impact of the condition on their overall health and future development. Highlighting the baby's normal features can shift their focus from the defect to the inherent joys of their newborn, reinforcing that despite the presence of cleft lip and palate, the baby is still fundamentally healthy and deserving of love and care.

Additionally, fostering a sense of normalcy helps parents to view their child in a holistic way rather than through the lens of the condition alone. This approach can encourage parents to engage more positively with their child and participate actively in their care and eventual treatment.