For a client with diarrhea due to shigella, which precaution should the nurse implement?

For a client with diarrhea caused by Shigella, it is essential to implement specific precautions to prevent the spread of infection. The correct response is to wear a gown when caring for the client. This is due to Shigella's mode of transmission, which can occur through the fecal-oral route, as the bacteria can be present in stool. Wearing a gown helps protect the nurse's clothing from contamination, especially during activities that may involve direct contact with the client or their environment, such as changing linens or assisting with personal care.

Infection control protocols recommend this level of protection to minimize the risk of transferring pathogens to other patients or surfaces, ultimately containing the infection outbreak. While wearing gloves is important, a gown adds an additional layer of protection for both the healthcare provider and other patients.