Which action by a postpartum client who is hepatitis B positive indicates an understanding of how to safely bottle-feed her newborn?

The action that indicates an understanding of how to safely bottle-feed her newborn is the practice of washing and drying her hands before feeding. Hand hygiene is a critical measure in preventing the transmission of infections, including hepatitis B, which the mother carries. By washing her hands thoroughly, she minimizes the risk of spreading any potential pathogens that could affect her newborn's health.

Safe bottle-feeding practices emphasize the importance of cleanliness, particularly in the context of a postpartum client who may have concerns about infectious agents. Handwashing helps ensure that any germs present on her hands do not contaminate the feeding equipment or the formula, thereby promoting the newborn's safety and well-being.

While seeking assistance before feeding, wearing gloves, and sanitizing the bottle are all relevant practices, they don’t specifically address the primary route of contamination, which is often through unwashed hands. Therefore, washing and drying her hands is the most direct and effective action to ensure safe feeding for the newborn.