A patient with a terminal illness expresses a desire to not be resuscitated in the event of a cardiac or respiratory arrest. Which of the following is the most appropriate step for a medical assistant to ensure the patient's wishes are respected?
Advise the patient to only verbally communicate their wish to family members to avoid any legal complexities.
Make a note of their wish in their medical chart and reassure them it will be considered in their treatment plan.
Ensure the patient has a documented advance directive such as a DNR order legally filed with their healthcare provider.
Promise the patient that their wishes will be remembered and respected by all medical staff involved in their care.