A 9-month-old infant is hospitalized and exhibits stranger anxiety, refuses to play with new toys, and cries when the primary caregiver leaves the room. The infant's vital signs are stable, and growth parameters are within the 50th percentile. The nurse plans interventions to support the infant's emotional and developmental needs during hospitalization. Which nursing action is the priority to promote security and reduce anxiety in this infant?

Limit physical contact with the infant to avoid overstimulation and encourage self-soothing.

Encourage the caregiver to stay with the infant as much as possible and maintain consistent routines to provide stability and comfort.

Offer the infant a variety of new toys and encourage independent play to distract from caregiver absence.

Increase environmental stimulation with bright colors and loud music to engage the infant's attention away from separation distress.