Final answer:
The authorization for someone to act on a patient's behalf when they are unable to make medical decisions is provided by the medical power of attorney. While a living will specifies medical interventions desired by an individual, a medical power of attorney gives a designated agent the authority to make broader healthcare decisions on behalf of the patient. D) medical power of attorney.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a patient is unable to make decisions about his/her medical care, the authorization for someone to act on behalf of that person is provided by the medical power of attorney. A living will is a legal document that details specific medical interventions a person wants in the event they are no longer capable of making decisions for themselves.
A durable power of attorney is another type of legal document that remains effective even if the person becomes mentally incompetent, but it is not solely for healthcare decisions and may include a wide range of authorities beyond medical matters. Surrogate decision makers are appointed under a surrogate decision makers statute, which comes into play when there is no advanced directive or living will, and the state law dictates who has the authority to make decisions for the incapacitated person.
It's important to understand that advance healthcare directives such as living wills and medical power of attorney documents are vital in preserving a person's autonomy, ensuring they receive the type of care they desire, and allow for decisions about end-of-life care and treatment preferences to be respected and followed. These decisions are often influenced by one's religion, culture, and upbringing and reflect the principle of autonomy in healthcare.