A Certified internal auditor performed an assurance engagement to review a department store’s cash function. Which of the following actions will be deemed lacking in due professional care?
A. Organizational records were reviewed to determine whether all employees who handle cash receipts and disbursements were bonded.
B. A flowchart of the entire cash function was developed, but only a sample of transactions was tested.
C. The final engagement communication included a well-supported recommendation for the reduction in staff, although it was known that such a reduction would adversely affect morale.
D. Because of a highly developed system of internal control over the cash function, the final engagement communication assured senior management that no irregularities existed.
Answer (D) is correct.
REQUIRED: The action deemed lacking in due professional care.
DISCUSSION: Internal auditor cannot give absolute assurance the noncompliance or irregularities do not exist. (PA 1220-1.para. 2)
Answer (A) is incorrect. Reviewing records to determine whether all employees who handle cash receipts and disbursements were bonded is a standard procedure.
Answer (B) is incorrect. Sampling is permissible. Detailed reviews of all transactions are often not required or feasible.
Answer (C) is incorrect. In exercising due professional care, internal auditors should be alert to inefficiency.