Which statement about advance directives is true?

Advance directives are legal documents that express a person's preferences about medical treatment in situations where they may be unable to communicate those preferences themselves. The statement that advance directives must be honored is true because healthcare providers are legally and ethically bound to respect the wishes outlined in these documents as long as they comply with relevant laws.

When a patient has documented their healthcare preferences through an advance directive, it serves as a guide for healthcare providers and ensures that the patient's wishes are taken into account regarding treatments and interventions. This respect for autonomy is a fundamental principle in healthcare, reinforcing the importance of patient rights and informed consent. If a healthcare provider does not honor an advance directive, it can lead to legal and ethical ramifications.

The other statements present situations that do not universally hold true. For instance, while advance directives provide important guidance, healthcare providers are obligated to honor them only if they are valid and comply with state laws. While they may be optional for providers in some cases, those that are legally binding must be followed. Additionally, the legal requirements regarding witnesses can vary by state, and while individuals have the right to change their advance directives, there are specific procedures to do so effectively that need to be followed.