In the context of surrogate decision-making, which statement is correct?

• A. The surrogate makes medical decisions in a way that overrides patient preferences
• B. The surrogate should maximize family preferences
• C. The surrogate makes medical decisions in line with the patient’s known preferences or best interests
• D. The surrogate can approve any treatment they want

Answer: (C)

Surrogate decision-making centers on honoring the patient’s autonomy and welfare by choosing medical options the patient would have chosen. When the patient’s wishes are known, the surrogate uses the substituted judgment standard, making decisions that reflect those expressed preferences and values. If the patient’s preferences aren’t known, the surrogate applies the best interests standard, weighing benefits, burdens, quality of life, and the patient’s values to decide what would be best overall. This approach keeps decisions patient-centered rather than driven by the surrogate’s own desires or by family pressure, or by medical options chosen without considering medical appropriateness. So choosing medical actions that align with the patient’s known preferences or best interests is correct.