What safety precautions should be taken when handling intact hazardous drugs?

Using separate counting trays and spatulas is crucial when handling intact hazardous drugs because it minimizes the risk of cross-contamination and ensures a safer working environment. Hazardous drugs can pose significant health risks to both healthcare providers and patients if they are not handled properly. By employing dedicated tools for these drugs, the potential for transferring harmful substances to uncontaminated drugs or surfaces is greatly reduced.

Additionally, this practice aligns with safety protocols and regulatory guidelines that aim to protect healthcare workers as well as patients from exposure. It also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a clean and segregated area for potentially hazardous materials to further minimize risks and ensure compliance with safety standards in handling these drugs.