Which document commonly designates who can make medical decisions for an incapacitated patient?

• A. Living Will
• B. Guardian Appointed by Court
• C. Spouse
• D. Power of Attorney

Answer: (D)

When someone may no longer be able to speak for themselves, a document that names who can make medical decisions on their behalf is the durable power of attorney for healthcare. This instrument lets the individual choose a trusted agent to handle medical choices and act in their best interests once incapacity occurs, with the authority lasting specifically for health care matters. A living will, by contrast, conveys the patient’s preferences about treatments but does not appoint a decision-maker. If no prior designation exists, a guardian can be appointed by a court, but that involves a legal process and is not the usual way people pre-commit to a decision-maker. A spouse can be named as the agent in the durable POA if designated, reinforcing why this document is the standard tool for assigning who decides about medical care when the patient cannot.