Which of the following equipment should the nurse aide have available when caring for a client's beard?

When caring for a client’s beard, having the appropriate equipment is essential to ensure comfort, hygiene, and safety during grooming. The correct set of items includes a towel, gloves, a razor, and shaving cream.

The towel serves multiple purposes: it protects the client’s clothing from moisture and hair clippings, and it can also be used to dry the face after cleaning. Wearing gloves demonstrates adherence to infection control practices, keeping both the client and the caregiver safe from potential contaminants during the grooming process.

The use of a razor, particularly in the context of shaving or trimming a beard, requires shaving cream. This product not only aids in lubricating the skin but also helps soften the hair, making the shaving process smoother and minimizing the risk of irritation or cuts. Having these items available ensures that the nurse aide can provide proper, respectful, and safe care for the client's beard grooming needs.

The other choices do not include all necessary components for this specific task. For example, while shaving brushes and mirrors are useful, they do not fulfill the same immediate need for hygiene and safety as having gloves and shaving cream.