Which of the following is a function performed under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian?

The correct answer is the counting of medication, which is a function that can be performed under the direct supervision of a licensed veterinarian. In a veterinary clinic, the role of a medication clerk typically involves tasks that support licensed professionals, including the accurate counting and preparing of medications for patient use. This task ensures that the medications are ready for the veterinarian to administer or prescribe, but does not include the authority to decide on the treatments or diagnoses.

Administering vaccines involves making clinical decisions about patient care, which typically must be done by a licensed veterinarian or under their direct oversight, as it can have immediate health implications for the patient. Performing surgery requires extensive training and licensing, and is strictly reserved for veterinarians who have completed the necessary education and licensure. Diagnosing illness is a task that is also limited to licensed veterinarians, as it demands clinical expertise and training to evaluate an animal's health accurately. Each of these tasks carries a level of responsibility and legal implications that necessitate the involvement of a licensed professional, which distinguishes them from the administrative tasks that a medication clerk may perform.