A nurse is caring for a client who has Clostridium difficile. When applying a cover gown, which of the following techniques should the nurse use?

A. Apply the gown before the gloves: The gown must be applied before donning gloves to ensure that the gown fully covers the arms and torso, providing a protective barrier against contamination. Gloves are then pulled over the gown cuffs to maintain a proper seal and reduce the risk of pathogen exposure, especially with infections like Clostridium difficile. B. The gown with the gloves on: Wearing the gown after gloves compromises the sterile barrier, allowing pathogens to contact the skin or clothing. This technique increases the risk of contamination because the gloves may not completely cover or seal the gown’s cuffs properly, which is critical in preventing the spread of infection. C. Tuck the glove cuffs under the gown sleeves: Gloves should not be tucked under gown sleeves. Instead, gloves should cover the gown cuffs, creating a continuous protective layer. Tucking gloves under the gown can leave the wrists exposed and vulnerable to contamination, particularly when caring for clients with highly transmissible infections. D. Push the gown sleeves up to the elbows: Pushing the sleeves up to the elbows defeats the protective purpose of the gown. It exposes the forearms to potential pathogens and bodily fluids, increasing the risk of infection transmission to both the nurse and other clients, especially when dealing with spore-forming bacteria like Clostridium difficile.