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The designation of someone to make medical care decisions for an incompetent patient is typically done through a durable power of attorney. This legal document allows one person to act on behalf of another, specifically for healthcare decisions when the individual is unable to make those decisions themselves. It ensures that the appointed individual can communicate preferences regarding medical treatments, make choices aligned with the patient’s values, and navigate the complexities of healthcare without the need for court intervention.

While advance directives provide general instructions about care preferences in the event of incapacity, they do not designate a specific individual to make decisions. A general power of attorney might include a broader scope of authority, including financial matters, but it is not specifically tailored for healthcare decisions and may not be effective in all healthcare contexts. A do-not-resuscitate order is strictly related to resuscitation efforts and does not address the broader scope of medical decision-making.