DefinitionAdvance care directives are specific instructions, prepared in advance, that are intended to direct a person's medical care if he or she becomes unable to do so in the future.Alternative NamesPower of attorney; DNR; Do not resuscitate; Living willInformationAdvance care directives allow patients to provide instructions about their preferences regarding the care they would like to receive if they develop a terminal illness or a life-threatening injury. Advance care directives can also designate someone the patient trusts to make decisions about medical care if the patient becomes unable to make (or communicate) these decisions. This is called designating "power of attorney (for health care)".Federal law requires hospitals, nursing homes, and other institutions that receive Medicar