What written documentation specifies medical treatment for a competent patient should they become unable to make decisions?

The correct choice is an Advance Directive. This is a legal document that clearly outlines a person's preferences regarding medical treatment in situations where they may become incapacitated and unable to communicate their wishes. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that a person's healthcare decisions are respected during emergencies or medical conditions that impair their ability to make choices.

Advance Directives can encompass various forms, including a living will, which specifically addresses the types of medical treatments a person desires or does not desire, particularly in end-of-life scenarios. However, the term "Advance Directive" is more comprehensive, as it can also include durable power of attorney for healthcare, which appoints someone to make decisions on a patient's behalf if they cannot do so themselves.

A healthcare directive is a broader term that may sometimes be used interchangeably with an advance directive, but it can also refer to specific guidelines rather than encompassing all aspects of a person’s medical treatment preferences. A patient autonomy document is not a widely recognized term in medical documentation and does not convey the same legal authority or clarity as an advance directive.

Understanding the definition and scope of an advance directive is vital for EMTs, as it helps ensure they are informed about a patient’s healthcare preferences, which is essential for providing appropriate and respectful care.