When following droplet precautions, you need to wear:

When following droplet precautions, wearing a mask when working within 3 feet of the person is essential for preventing the spread of respiratory infections. Droplet precautions are implemented when infectious agents are transmitted through droplets that can be generated when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes. These droplets can remain suspended in the air or settle on surfaces, posing a risk of transmission to others in close proximity.

A mask serves as a barrier to protect the healthcare provider from inhaling these droplets, effectively reducing the likelihood of infection. It is particularly important to wear the mask in close settings, such as within 3 feet, as this distance is where droplets are most likely to travel.

The other options don't provide appropriate protection under droplet precautions. Wearing a gown at all times may be necessary in certain circumstances, but it is not universally required for droplet precautions. Gloves are useful for contact protection but do not protect against respiratory droplets. A face shield may provide additional eye protection but is not a substitute for a mask in protecting against droplet transmission.