Which of the following tasks must be performed with immediate supervision of a licensed veterinarian?

The administration of anesthesia is a critical task in veterinary practice that requires immediate supervision by a licensed veterinarian due to the inherent risks and potential complications associated with the procedure. Anesthesia can significantly affect an animal's physiological status and requires precise monitoring and intervention by a qualified professional throughout the process.

Only a licensed veterinarian possesses the necessary training and expertise to assess an animal's health status, choose the appropriate anesthetic agent, dosages, and monitor the animal's vital signs during the procedure to manage any adverse reactions. This level of responsibility and the potential for serious consequences highlights why this task must be performed under the direct oversight of a veterinarian.

In contrast, while tasks like administering medication or obtaining diagnostic samples may require training and knowledge, they can often be performed with varying degrees of supervision. Feeding animals in care, though important, is typically a routine activity that does not require the immediate oversight of a veterinarian. Therefore, C stands out as the task necessitating the highest level of supervision.