What term describes the authority or power to act for another?

• A. Capital
• B. Policy
• C. Infrastructure
• D. Proxy

Answer: (D)

The concept being tested is the ability to act on another person’s behalf. A proxy is someone who has been granted authority to act for another person, carrying the power to make decisions or take actions in that person’s stead. In healthcare, a proxy decision-maker or surrogate steps in when the patient can’t express their wishes, making medical choices in line with the patient’s values or previously stated preferences. This authority typically comes from formal documents like a healthcare power of attorney or an advance directive, or from a court appointment when needed. The other terms describe resources, rules, or systems rather than the authority to act for someone else, so they don’t fit as well.