What scenario does "advanced directives" directly address?

Advanced directives are legal documents that enable individuals to outline their preferences regarding medical care and treatment in the event that they are unable to communicate those decisions themselves due to illness, injury, or incapacity. This directly addresses the patient's rights regarding medical treatment preferences, as advanced directives allow patients to express their wishes concerning treatment options, including end-of-life care, resuscitation efforts, and other critical medical decisions.

By establishing advanced directives, patients ensure that their healthcare providers and loved ones are aware of their specific choices concerning medical interventions. This respects the autonomy of the patient and aligns medical care with their values and preferences. As a result, healthcare professionals can make informed decisions consistent with the patient's wishes, especially in situations where the patient cannot advocate for themselves.

Thus, the core purpose of advanced directives revolves around protecting and asserting a patient's rights to determine their medical care preferences, making the correct answer clearly aligned with this principle.