Final answer:
A durable power of attorney (DPOA) grants another person the authority to make healthcare decisions on behalf of a patient if they are unable to do so themselves.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct answer is A. Durable power of attorney. A durable power of attorney (DPOA) is a legal document that grants another person the authority to make healthcare decisions on behalf of a patient if they are unable to do so themselves. This appointed person, known as the healthcare agent or proxy, has the responsibility to ensure that the patient's wishes and best interests are taken into account when making medical decisions.