Which document designates a healthcare surrogate who can make decisions if the patient cannot?

• A. DNR
• B. Designates a healthcare surrogate who can make healthcare decisions if the patient cannot
• C. Living Will
• D. Five Wishes

Answer: (B)

Appointing a healthcare surrogate to decide medical care when you can’t is done through a durable power of attorney for health care, often called a healthcare proxy. This document names who can make medical decisions on your behalf and ensures someone trusted steps in if you become unable to express your wishes. The choice described fits this concept exactly because it states designating a healthcare surrogate to make decisions if the patient cannot.

A DNR is about whether to withhold resuscitation, not about who makes decisions. A Living Will records your preferences for treatment but does not appoint a decision-maker. Five Wishes is a specific advance directive form that can include a surrogate, but the fundamental term for the appointment itself is a healthcare proxy/durable power of attorney for health care, which is why that option is the best fit.