What must certified techs know how to use before being certified to compound?

The correct answer is that certified pharmacy technicians must know how to use a scale before being certified to compound. In the compounding process, accurate measurement of ingredients is critical to ensure the safety and efficacy of the compounded medication. A scale allows technicians to weigh out precise amounts of active and inactive ingredients, which is essential for maintaining the correct dosages and formulations.

Understanding how to use a scale effectively also includes knowing the different types of scales available, such as electronic or balance scales, and being aware of how to calibrate them to ensure accurate measurements. This knowledge is foundational to the practice of compounding, as even minor deviations in weight can lead to significant differences in the final product, potentially causing harm to patients.

Other options, while they may be useful in various pharmacy tasks, are not fundamental for the specific process of compounding. A computer system, for example, is more oriented towards record-keeping and inventory management rather than the direct physical measurement of ingredients. A microscope is typically used for examining small particles or microorganisms but not necessarily for compounding medications. A blender may assist in mixing ingredients, but the critical element of accurately measuring those ingredients relies on the use of a scale, emphasizing its importance in the compounding process.