When counting the number of tablets or capsules prescribed, what should you always use?

• A. A counting tray for tablets.
• B. Your fingers to count the pills.
• C. A scale to measure count.
• D. A ruler to measure count.

Answer: (A)

Counting tablets and capsules requires a clean, stable surface that makes counting accurate and easy to verify. A counting tray provides just that: a designated, flat area to group pills, count them precisely, and minimize the chance of dropping or mixing them with other medications. Using fingers can lead to miscounts and contamination, while a scale measures weight rather than quantity (unless a specialized counting scale is used, which isn’t the standard method here). A ruler measures length, not the number of pills. Therefore, the counting tray is the appropriate tool for ensuring an accurate and safe count.