What type of inventory provides an on-hand count at a specific time?

The correct answer is perpetual inventory. This approach to inventory management continuously updates inventory records in real time, reflecting the current quantity on hand as transactions occur—whether through sales, returns, or restocking. It allows pharmacy technicians to have an ongoing, accurate picture of inventory levels, which aids in timely decision-making and efficient stock management.

Perpetual inventory systems usually integrate with point-of-sale systems, automatically adjusting counts whenever inventory is sold or received. This is especially crucial in a pharmacy setting, where accurate medication stock levels are essential to ensure patient safety and adherence to regulatory standards.

Periodic inventory, in contrast, involves checking inventory levels at specific intervals, leading to potential discrepancies between actual stock and recorded amounts during the periods between counts. Physical inventory refers to the actual counting of items in stock, which can provide an accurate snapshot but is often conducted less frequently. Sample inventory typically doesn't provide a complete picture of all items on hand, making it insufficient for comprehensive inventory management.