Which of the following is NOT a typical PA general task?

• A. Take medical histories
• B. Order and interpret tests
• C. Perform surgery without supervision
• D. Develop treatment plans

Answer: (C)

PAs are trained to handle patient care tasks under physician supervision, with a focus on history-taking, ordering and interpreting tests, and developing treatment plans. These activities fit the everyday workflow of a general PA practice, where the PA coordinates care and supports the physician. Performing surgery without supervision, however, does not fit as a typical general PA task. Surgical procedures are conducted under the supervising physician’s oversight and within the PA’s trained scope, often as an assistant or for limited procedures, rather than as an independent, unsupervised activity. So, the statement that describes doing surgery without supervision is not aligned with the normal duties of a PA in general practice.