The person identified as the first-choice decision maker is the ...

• A. Primary proxy
• B. General proxy
• C. Secondary proxy
• D. Limited proxy

Answer: (A)

The main idea is identifying the person named to be the primary decision maker when a patient can’t communicate. The primary proxy is the main decision maker designated in a durable power of attorney for healthcare or an advance directive. They have the highest priority and are responsible for making medical decisions that reflect the patient’s known wishes and values. If they are unavailable or unable to act, a secondary proxy steps in as the backup. A limited proxy would only have authority for specific decisions or a limited period, not the standard ongoing role of the first-choice decision maker. A general proxy isn’t the standard label for the top decision maker in this hierarchy.