What factor is essential in assessing growth in infants?

Weight gain is essential in assessing growth in infants because it reflects the infant's nutritional status and overall health. Regular monitoring of weight helps healthcare providers determine if an infant is growing adequately or if there are any concerns regarding feeding, metabolic issues, or underlying health problems.

In the early stages of life, weight gain is a critical indicator of whether an infant is receiving enough nourishment. Infants generally gain weight rapidly in the first few months, and consistent weight gain is crucial as it supports developmental milestones and healthy growth patterns.

While head circumference, height, and other factors can also provide important information about an infant's growth and development, weight gain is specifically a direct measure of how well the infant is feeding and thriving in those early stages.