Which action is permitted as long as it does not delay a medical screening examination or stabilizing treatment?

The correct choice allows for the completion of necessary administrative functions that do not impede immediate medical care. Conducting a reasonable registration process is essential for hospital operations and can typically occur alongside urgent medical duties without causing delay. Proper registration information helps in identifying the patient and ensuring appropriate care is provided, while not interrupting the critical process of medical screening or stabilization.

In contrast, some of the other actions could interfere with the timely provision of care. For example, referring a patient to another hospital risks delaying treatment, as the patient may need to wait for transfer and could be without necessary care in the meantime. Gathering payment information upfront is also discouraged, as it could inhibit urgent care access and divert attention away from the patient's medical needs. Performing all tests before treatment could significantly delay both screening and therapeutic interventions, which is particularly problematic in an emergency context where timely action is crucial.