What is a key safety practice when handling drugs in a clinic?

Using a counting tray is a key safety practice when handling drugs in a clinic because it helps ensure accuracy and minimizes the risk of contamination or cross-contamination. A counting tray allows you to measure and handle medications without direct contact from your hands, which can transfer bacteria or other harmful substances to medications. Furthermore, counting trays are often specifically designed with a smooth surface that enables easy counting and pouring of pills or capsules, thereby improving workflow and efficiency while maintaining safety standards.

In contrast, using a paper towel might not provide a clean or stable surface for handling drugs, making it less effective for this purpose. A plastic tray could offer some benefits, but it may not always minimize contamination as effectively as a counting tray designed specifically for drug handling. Handling drugs directly with your hands is generally unsafe and not recommended, as it increases the risk of transferring contaminants.