Final answer:
An advanced directive is a written legal document that specifies the medical interventions a person wants in case they cannot communicate their desires. It ensures individuals' preferences are respected by healthcare professionals.
Step-by-step explanation:
An advanced directive is a written legal document that details specific interventions a person wants, also known as a living will. It allows individuals to express their preferences for medical treatment and care in the event that they become incapacitated or unable to communicate their desires.
Advanced directives can include instructions about life-sustaining treatments, resuscitation measures, pain management, and organ donation. These documents ensure that an individual's wishes are respected and followed by healthcare professionals.
For example, if a person includes in their advanced directive that they do not want to be kept on life support machines if they have irreversible brain damage, healthcare providers will be legally bound to honor that wish.
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