Who is authorized to complete the medical history and physical exam?

The correct answer is that a physician, physician assistant (PA), or nurse practitioner (NP) is authorized to complete the medical history and physical exam. This is because these healthcare professionals have received the necessary education, training, and licensure to conduct thorough assessments of a patient's health, interpret medical histories, and perform physical examinations.

Physicians, PAs, and NPs are equipped with the clinical skills required to evaluate complex medical conditions, develop treatment plans, and make critical healthcare decisions based on their findings. Their role is essential in ensuring that patients receive a comprehensive assessment that is foundational for proper diagnosis and treatment.

While registered nurses play a vital role in patient care, including collecting basic health information and performing certain assessments, they do not have the legal authority to perform comprehensive medical histories and physical exams independently. Medical assistants, while valuable members of the healthcare team, typically provide support roles and are not licensed or trained to conduct in-depth evaluations. Healthcare interns, who may still be undergoing training, do not possess the full qualifications or licensure that enable them to perform these critical assessments autonomously.