Which protective measure is essential when handling intact hazardous drugs?

Wearing nitrile gloves and using separate trays is essential when handling intact hazardous drugs because nitrile gloves provide a barrier that helps protect the skin from contamination and exposure to the hazardous substances. Nitrile is specifically chosen for its resistance to punctures and chemicals, making it a safer option than cotton gloves, which do not provide sufficient protection in this context.

Using separate trays is also crucial to prevent cross-contamination between different drugs and to keep the hazardous materials isolated from other non-hazardous items. This practice mitigates the risk of accidental exposure and ensures safe handling protocols are followed in environments where hazardous drugs are manipulated.

The importance of these protective measures is particularly emphasized in settings such as pharmacies or healthcare facilities, where staff must adhere to strict safety standards to protect their health and ensure patient safety.