What is the purpose of advance directives?

The purpose of advance directives is to state desired medical treatments in case of incapacity. These legal documents enable individuals to outline their preferences for medical care if they become unable to communicate their wishes due to illness or injury. By documenting such preferences, individuals ensure that their healthcare providers and loved ones understand their values and desires regarding life-sustaining treatments, interventions, and end-of-life care.

Advance directives are crucial in guiding healthcare decisions and ensuring that individuals receive care that aligns with their personal beliefs and wishes. This can involve preferences concerning resuscitation efforts, use of mechanical ventilation, and other significant medical interventions. Such directives provide clarity and reduce the potential for conflict among family members or the medical team during critical situations.

The other options do not accurately represent the primary focus of advance directives. While they involve important matters, they fall outside the scope of medical treatment preferences in incapacity situations, which is the essential purpose of advance directives.