What are the acceptable methods to revoke an advance directive?

An advance directive is a legal document that outlines a person's preferences regarding medical treatment in the event they become unable to communicate their wishes. It is essential to know that individuals have the right to revoke their advance directive at any time as long as they are competent to make decisions.

Oral revocation is valid, as a person can verbally express their intention to revoke their advance directive to their healthcare provider or family members. This method simply requires the individual's clear communication of their new wishes.

Destroying the document serves as a physical method of revocation. By tearing up, burning, or otherwise intentionally destroying the advance directive, an individual can evidence their intention to revoke the directive, making it clear that they no longer want those instructions to be followed.

Writing a statement of revocation is another formal method of indicating that the prior advance directive is no longer valid. This written document should ideally state the intention to revoke the previous directive and may include signatures for added clarity, although this is not strictly necessary for the revocation to be effective.

Since all these methods are legally recognized approaches to revoking an advance directive, the inclusion of all options in the correct answer demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of the various ways an individual can ensure their current wishes regarding medical care are honored.