Final answer:
In the HIPAA Security Rule, 'addressable' specifications are situational, requiring covered entities to assess if the suggested guard is reasonable and appropriate, and if not, implement an equivalent alternative if possible.
Step-by-step explanation:
In the context of the HIPAA Security Rule, "addressable" refers to safeguards that are situational in nature. Unlike 'required' specifications that must be implemented by all covered entities, addressable specifications are more flexible.
A covered entity must assess whether each addressable implementation specification is a reasonable and appropriate safeguard in its environment, considering its own specific facts and circumstances, such as the size, complexity, and capabilities of the entity. If the entity determines that the addressable specification is not reasonable and appropriate, it must document the reasons why and implement an equivalent alternative measure if reasonable and practical. Therefore, the answer to the question is D - Situational.