Which document is an advance directive?

• A. Durable power of attorney
• B. Do-not-resuscitate order
• C. Living will
• D. Medical power of attorney

Answer: (C)

An advance directive is a written plan that communicates in advance what medical care you want if you can’t speak for yourself. A living will is the classic example because it specifies which life-sustaining treatments you want or don’t want in certain situations, providing clear instructions to healthcare providers about your wishes when you’re unable to communicate them.

A do-not-resuscitate order is a clinical order created by a clinician, typically in consultation with the patient or surrogate, and not the general document that records your preferences for all future care. A durable or medical power of attorney designates someone to make healthcare decisions for you if you’re unable, which is important but refers to who decides rather than detailing specific treatment preferences.