What is an advanced directive?

• A. An oral directive given to family members only
• B. A legal document granting power of attorney for finances
• C. A bill outlining hospital visitation rights
• D. A written statement of a person's wishes regarding medical treatment, including a living will

Answer: (D)

An advanced directive is a written statement of a person’s wishes regarding medical treatment, including a living will. It guides healthcare decisions when you’re unable to communicate your preferences, so clinicians and loved ones know which treatments you want or don’t want, such as resuscitation or life-sustaining measures. It can also name a health care proxy—someone you trust to make medical decisions on your behalf.

Why this is the best fit: it directly captures the purpose of planning for medical care in advance and specifies treatments in writing, which helps ensure your wishes are followed. Oral instructions to family members aren’t as formal or enforceable in many settings, a power of attorney for finances covers financial decisions rather than medical care, and a document about visitation rights deals with who can visit you, not treatment choices.