which of these tasks is not permitted to be performed by an HHA

• A. taking vital signs
• B. ROM exercises
• C. diagnose illnesses & prescribe meds
• D. light housekeeping

Answer: (C)

Understanding what an HHA can and cannot do is about scope of practice. HHAs provide help with daily living activities and basic health monitoring under supervision, not medical decisions. Diagnosing illnesses and prescribing medications require clinical assessment and a licensed prescriber, so an HHA is not authorized to perform those tasks. The other options align with typical home health aide duties: taking vital signs is a basic health check that can be monitored and communicated to the supervising nurse; ROM exercises can be carried out as directed to help maintain joint mobility; light housekeeping supports safety and comfort at home. Therefore, diagnosing illnesses and prescribing meds is the task outside an HHA's scope and not permitted.