The registered nurse observes a new graduate nurse providing patient-centered care. What action led to this conclusion?

Patient-centered care emphasizes the importance of considering patients' preferences, values, and needs in the delivery of healthcare services. When the new graduate nurse provides food according to the patients' preferences, it demonstrates an understanding and respect for individual patient choices and dietary needs. This action is foundational to creating a personalized care experience, which is a hallmark of patient-centered care.

Maintaining eye contact is important for effective communication and rapport but does not directly reflect a tailored approach to care that considers patient preferences. Spending more time with patients who have few visitors shows compassion and attention to emotional needs, but does not necessarily indicate a focused approach to their specific care preferences. Avoiding physical contact, such as holding a patient's hands, could be seen as a less personal interaction, which might not align with the tenets of patient-centered care that seek to foster trust and connection with patients.