A document in which a patient lists medical treatment to refuse if unable to decide is called?

• A. Living will
• B. Power of attorney
• C. Informed consent
• D. Last will and testament

Answer: (A)

When someone might become unable to communicate their wishes, doctors and patients use advance directives to guide care. A living will is a document that records the specific medical treatments you want or do not want to receive if you cannot express your decisions, such as resuscitation or life-sustaining measures. It focuses on the types of care you would refuse or accept in situations where you’re incapacitated but alive, guiding those who provide care and your loved ones. This differs from a power of attorney for healthcare, which designates another person to make medical decisions for you, rather than listing your treatment preferences itself. It also isn’t what you sign to give consent for a procedure (informed consent) or a will that covers assets after death (last will and testament). Because the description matches documenting refused treatments in advance, a living will is the most appropriate choice.