When maintaining droplet precautions for a client with meningitis, what should the nurse wear?

Droplet precautions are essential in preventing the transmission of infections that can spread through respiratory droplets when a client coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes. In the case of meningitis, which can be caused by bacterial pathogens that are spread via respiratory secretions, it is crucial for the nurse to protect themselves correctly.

Wearing a surgical mask within 3 feet of the client is appropriate because the mask provides a barrier to prevent inhalation of infectious droplets that could be released into the air during interactions. This distance ensures that the nurse is adequately protected while still allowing for necessary close contact with the patient to provide care.

While a gown and gloves may be necessary in certain scenarios, especially when there is potential for contact with infectious materials, they are not specifically required for droplet precautions unless there is a risk of fluid exposure. Similarly, while face shields and goggles can offer additional protection, they are typically not mandated for standard droplet precautions unless there is a risk of splashing bodily fluids. An N95 respirator is generally reserved for airborne precautions, which is unnecessary for droplet precautions related to meningitis. Thus, the surgical mask is the most relevant personal protective equipment for this scenario.