Which action is not within the scope of an HHA's duties?

• A. Taking vital signs
• B. Diagnose illnesses
• C. ROM exercises
• D. Light housekeeping

Answer: (B)

Understanding what Home Health Aides are authorized to do helps keep care safe and within professional boundaries. Diagnosing illnesses is not something an HHA is trained or licensed to do; it requires a nurse or physician to assess symptoms, order tests, interpret results, and determine a treatment plan. An HHA’s role is to support the plan of care set by the supervising clinician, which can include taking vital signs, assisting with range-of-motion exercises, and performing light housekeeping to promote safety, comfort, and daily functioning. Vital signs are collected to monitor health status and report changes; ROM exercises help maintain mobility when prescribed; light housekeeping helps maintain a clean, safe environment. Because diagnosing illnesses involves clinical judgment and medical decision-making, it falls outside the HHA scope of duties.