Physician Assistants — Tasks

Task statements

• Make tentative diagnoses and decisions about management and treatment of patients.
• Interpret diagnostic test results for deviations from normal.
• Prescribe therapy or medication with physician approval.
• Obtain, compile, and record patient medical data, including health history, progress notes, and results of physical examination.
• Examine patients to obtain information about their physical condition.
• Administer or order diagnostic tests, such as x-ray, electrocardiogram, and laboratory tests.
• Instruct and counsel patients about prescribed therapeutic regimens, normal growth and development, family planning, emotional problems of daily living, and health maintenance.
• Perform therapeutic procedures, such as injections, immunizations, suturing and wound care, and infection management.
• Visit and observe patients on hospital rounds or house calls, updating charts, ordering therapy, and reporting back to physician.
• Provide physicians with assistance during surgery or complicated medical procedures.
• Supervise and coordinate activities of technicians and technical assistants.
• Order medical and laboratory supplies and equipment.