Final answer:
The first piece of personal protective equipment donned by the healthcare provider before entering a room that requires droplet precautions is a mask.
Step-by-step explanation:
The first piece of personal protective equipment donned by the healthcare provider before entering a room that requires droplet precautions is b. Mask. Masks are essential for preventing the spread of droplets, which can contain pathogens, from the healthcare provider to the patient and vice versa. They act as a barrier to protect both parties. Examples of masks include surgical masks, N95 respirators, and face shields.