Which of the following is listed as a sample task that a PA may perform?

• A. Order diagnostic labs and tests.
• B. Design health policy.
• C. Write grant proposals.
• D. Manage patient discharges.

Answer: (A)

PAs routinely order diagnostic labs and tests as part of patient evaluation and decision-making. After gathering history and performing the physical exam, a PA selects appropriate labs or imaging to confirm or refine a diagnosis and to guide treatment, doing so under the supervising physician or within their collaborative practice guidelines. This direct, patient-focused task is a fundamental aspect of the PA role across many settings.

The other activities described are more aligned with policy, research, or care coordination rather than the hands-on clinical task of evaluating a patient with tests. Designing health policy and writing grant proposals belong to administrative or research domains, while discharge planning is a team-based process that may involve multiple professionals, though ordering tests remains a core clinical action.