What precaution should a nurse take when caring for a client with Clostridium difficile?

When caring for a client with Clostridium difficile (C. diff), putting on a gown is a crucial precaution because C. diff is transmitted via spores that can persist on surfaces and may be spread through contact with contaminated hands or equipment. The use of a gown protects the nurse's clothing from contamination, minimizing the risk of spreading the spores to other patients or areas of the healthcare facility.

In addition to wearing a gown, it is important to note that healthcare providers should also wear gloves while caring for these clients to provide an additional barrier against infection. While hand hygiene is critical, washing hands with soap and water is particularly important after removing gloves, as alcohol-based hand sanitizers are not effective against C. diff spores.

Taking these precautions helps to control the spread of this infection, which is significant in healthcare settings where vulnerable patients are at risk. Wearing a mask is not typically necessary in the context of C. diff unless the patient is also exhibiting respiratory symptoms or there is a concern for droplet transmission from another infection. Therefore, wearing a gown is a key component of effective infection control measures in the care of clients with C. difficile.