A nurse is caring for a client who has a Clostridium difficile infection. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A reason: Removing a thermometer for use on another client risks cross-contamination, as C. difficile spores are highly transmissible. Dedicated equipment is required to prevent spread, so this action is incorrect and violates infection control protocols. Choice B reason: Wearing a gown during care prevents C. difficile spore transmission via contact, a key precaution for this infection. This aligns with CDC contact isolation guidelines, protecting staff and other patients, making it the correct action. Choice C reason: Washing hands with alcohol-based cleaner is ineffective against C. difficile spores, which require soap and water to physically remove them. This action is incorrect and inadequate for infection control in this scenario. Choice D reason: Wearing an N95 respirator is unnecessary, as C. difficile is not airborne. Contact precautions (gown, gloves) suffice, so this action is incorrect and overprotective, wasting resources without addressing the transmission mode.