What is the primary role of a PCA in monitoring patient health?

The primary role of a Personal Care Assistant (PCA) in monitoring patient health is to observe changes in the patient's condition. This involves vigilant attention to the patient’s physical and emotional state, such as noting any changes in vital signs, behavior, mobility, or overall well-being. By observing these changes, a PCA can provide critical information to registered nurses or doctors, ensuring that any necessary adjustments to the care plan are made in a timely manner.

While the other choices mention important tasks, none of them encapsulate the core monitoring responsibility as effectively. Administering medication is often performed by licensed professionals to ensure safety and compliance with medical protocols. Writing patient reports is typically reserved for healthcare providers who have the training to interpret and record clinical data accurately. Scheduling appointments is an administrative function that supports patient care but does not directly involve observing or monitoring the health status of patients. Therefore, the key responsibility of a PCA in this context is to observe and report on changes, aiding in the overall assessment and adjustment of patient care.