What type of advance directive provides information about the person a patient designates to make health care decisions for them?

The correct choice is a health care proxy, which specifically designates an individual (often referred to as an agent or surrogate) to make health care decisions on behalf of a patient when that patient is unable to do so themselves. This directive is crucial because it ensures that someone the patient trusts can make medical choices aligned with their values and wishes, especially in critical situations where they might be incapacitated.

A living will primarily outlines specific wishes regarding medical treatment and interventions, without naming a decision-maker. It focuses on the types of medical care a person would want or not want to receive in certain end-of-life scenarios, but it does not provide a mechanism for someone to represent the patient.

A durable power of attorney, while it can include health care decisions, is more broadly applicable and can also cover financial matters. It allows a designated person to handle various types of decisions, not just those related to health care.

A do not resuscitate (DNR) order is a specific instruction indicating that a patient does not want to undergo cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in the event of cardiac or respiratory arrest. This is a separate directive from designating someone to make comprehensive health care decisions.

Thus, the role of a health care