MDS Alert
MEDICARE:
Steer Clear of Common Problems At P1a
Capture these treatments to keep your SNF fiscally healthy. MDS teams that aren't up to sp... Read more
Steer Clear of Common Problems At P1a
Capture these treatments to keep your SNF fiscally healthy. MDS teams that aren't up to sp... Read more
REIMBURSEMENT:
This List Helps You Get To Know The RUG Drivers In P1a
Here's what you need to double-check. P1a items that will RUG a resident with the right AD... Read more
This List Helps You Get To Know The RUG Drivers In P1a
Here's what you need to double-check. P1a items that will RUG a resident with the right AD... Read more
MDS TRENDS:
Ease Your Transition To MDS 3.0: Stay On Top Of Key Changes
Are you ready for this major modification to the MDS modus operandi? For a preliminary vie... Read more
Ease Your Transition To MDS 3.0: Stay On Top Of Key Changes
Are you ready for this major modification to the MDS modus operandi? For a preliminary vie... Read more
MDS MANAGEMENT:
2 Things You Can Do Now With The Draft MDS 3.0
Here's how to take a proactive approach. The MDS 3.0 may seem like something you can't do ... Read more
2 Things You Can Do Now With The Draft MDS 3.0
Here's how to take a proactive approach. The MDS 3.0 may seem like something you can't do ... Read more
MDS TRENDS:
Got Questions About MDS 3.0?
Here are some important answers. If you suffer from information "underload" about the upco... Read more
Got Questions About MDS 3.0?
Here are some important answers. If you suffer from information "underload" about the upco... Read more
PAIN ASSESSMENT:
Check Out The Draft MDS 3.0 Pain Assessment
The new template provides a more comprehensive look at pain management.... Read more
Check Out The Draft MDS 3.0 Pain Assessment
The new template provides a more comprehensive look at pain management.... Read more
RAI COMPLIANCE:
Tips For Keeping Your Discharge Tracking Forms On Track
Follow this key advice for what you need to do when. Knowing the ins and outs of coding an... Read more
Tips For Keeping Your Discharge Tracking Forms On Track
Follow this key advice for what you need to do when. Knowing the ins and outs of coding an... Read more
RAI COMPLIANCE:
Know When To Submit A Reentry Form
Focus on these 2 key points and you won't get confused. Do you ever find yourself wonderin... Read more
Know When To Submit A Reentry Form
Focus on these 2 key points and you won't get confused. Do you ever find yourself wonderin... Read more
CLINICAL CARE:
Cognitively Impaired Resident Resisting Care? Care Plan The Problem
If you don't, your facility could end up doing a Plan of Correction. Say a surveyor finds ... Read more
Cognitively Impaired Resident Resisting Care? Care Plan The Problem
If you don't, your facility could end up doing a Plan of Correction. Say a surveyor finds ... Read more
CODING QUIZZER:
Can You Code This Type Of Suctioning At P1ai?
The wrong answer sets your facility up for medical review snafus. A resident receives oral... Read more
Can You Code This Type Of Suctioning At P1ai?
The wrong answer sets your facility up for medical review snafus. A resident receives oral... Read more
CLIP & SAVE ~ Follow This RAI Manual Decision Tree For Tracking Forms
Navigate the maze of options with ease.... Read more
Navigate the maze of options with ease.... Read more
Documentation ~ Don't Expect Your Coding To Stand On Its Own
The heat is on for supporting what you put on the MDS. You've heard the expression "put y... Read more
The heat is on for supporting what you put on the MDS. You've heard the expression "put y... Read more
ADL Coding ~ Use Teamwork To Keep ADL Scores On The Money
Licensed nurse's expertise + CNA input = ADL accuracy. Licensed nurses and CNAs bring diff... Read more
Licensed nurse's expertise + CNA input = ADL accuracy. Licensed nurses and CNAs bring diff... Read more
MDS Accuracy ~ Write An MDS Note To Justify ARD And Coding Decisions
This simple strategy can head off problems down the line. As an MDS nurse, you have an opp... Read more
This simple strategy can head off problems down the line. As an MDS nurse, you have an opp... Read more
Clinical Care ~ Use The MDS To Detect Delirium In Real Time
Don't let this medical emergency get the best of your residents. Delirium is one condition... Read more
Don't let this medical emergency get the best of your residents. Delirium is one condition... Read more
Coding Quizzer ~ How Would You Code This Resident's Meds In Section O4?
Use Mrs. P's medication administration record below to code in MDS Section O4 the number o... Read more
Use Mrs. P's medication administration record below to code in MDS Section O4 the number o... Read more
Care Planning ~ Be A Detective To Arrest Delirium:
Here's How
Start with the most likely suspects and work your way from there. When a person starts dis... Read more
Here's How
Start with the most likely suspects and work your way from there. When a person starts dis... Read more
Clip "N" Save ~ Resident Showing Signs Of Delirium? Check Out These Meds And MDS Items
Here's what the RAP suggests you review. Anytime a resident develops new or worsening conf... Read more
Here's what the RAP suggests you review. Anytime a resident develops new or worsening conf... Read more
Pressure Ulcer Prevention ~ Take Credit For A Wheelchair Repositioning Program On The MDS
Here's what you need to do to code the program at M5c. To head off survey woes and lawsuit... Read more
Here's what you need to do to code the program at M5c. To head off survey woes and lawsuit... Read more
Payment ~ Get The Right Info In A Row For Additional Development Requests
5 ways to win the payment day with the FI. Think of each additional development request (A... Read more
5 ways to win the payment day with the FI. Think of each additional development request (A... Read more
Test Yourself ~ Nail Down What Triggers The Delirium Quality Measure/Indicator
Question: How does the postacute delirium QM/QI work in terms of the MDS assessments and i... Read more
Question: How does the postacute delirium QM/QI work in terms of the MDS assessments and i... Read more
Clip "N" Save ~ Follow This Delirium Decision Tree
Cut to the chase in detecting, addressing this potentially lethal condition. ... Read more
Cut to the chase in detecting, addressing this potentially lethal condition. ... Read more
MDS News & Billing News
Have you made the transition to the 2007 ICD-9-CM codes? Keep in mind that the fiscal inte... Read more
Have you made the transition to the 2007 ICD-9-CM codes? Keep in mind that the fiscal inte... Read more
Payment:
Ditch These 3 MDS Myths Before They Drive Medicare Revenues Into The Ground
The truth will allow you to capture fair payment for your SNF.Myth-driven practices for se... Read more
Ditch These 3 MDS Myths Before They Drive Medicare Revenues Into The Ground
The truth will allow you to capture fair payment for your SNF.Myth-driven practices for se... Read more
MDS Accuracy:
Ready, Set … Attest To MDS Accuracy With Confidence
These 6 strategies will keep you and your facility in the clear.They say you should always... Read more
Ready, Set … Attest To MDS Accuracy With Confidence
These 6 strategies will keep you and your facility in the clear.They say you should always... Read more
Clip 'N' Save:
When You Next Sign AA9 … Review The Attestation Verbiage
You don' t have to read between the lines to see CMS means business.Reading the attestatio... Read more
When You Next Sign AA9 … Review The Attestation Verbiage
You don' t have to read between the lines to see CMS means business.Reading the attestatio... Read more
Quality Assurance:
Realize Your Professional License Is On The Line When You Sign AA9
Don't attest to improper coding practices.The argument that "the facility told me to do it... Read more
Realize Your Professional License Is On The Line When You Sign AA9
Don't attest to improper coding practices.The argument that "the facility told me to do it... Read more
MDS Accuracy:
Find Out What DAVE 2 Has Been Up To
On-site nurse reviewers have already gleaned these common themes.DAVE 2 nurse reviewers ha... Read more
Find Out What DAVE 2 Has Been Up To
On-site nurse reviewers have already gleaned these common themes.DAVE 2 nurse reviewers ha... Read more
Compliance:
Identify Rehab RUG Patterns That Wave 'Come Audit Me'
Spot it if you got it and know what to do next.The way in which your rehab RUGs shake out ... Read more
Identify Rehab RUG Patterns That Wave 'Come Audit Me'
Spot it if you got it and know what to do next.The way in which your rehab RUGs shake out ... Read more
What Do You Think?:
Completing R2b, VB2 and VB4 On The Same Day
Could you, would you, should you?The RAI rules don't forbid a facility from completing the... Read more
Completing R2b, VB2 and VB4 On The Same Day
Could you, would you, should you?The RAI rules don't forbid a facility from completing the... Read more
Coding Quizzer:
Put Your Calculator To The Task
Code this resident's tube feeding at K6a Tackle the following scenario for coding at K6a (... Read more
Put Your Calculator To The Task
Code this resident's tube feeding at K6a Tackle the following scenario for coding at K6a (... Read more
Resident Safety:
Over Relying On Your Restraint QM/QI Isn't A Good Idea -- Here Are 4 Reasons Why
This risk management snapshot is only part of the picture.Say your restraint quality measu... Read more
Over Relying On Your Restraint QM/QI Isn't A Good Idea -- Here Are 4 Reasons Why
This risk management snapshot is only part of the picture.Say your restraint quality measu... Read more
Coding Accuracy:
Before You Code, Know The Definition For These Key Items
Use the RAI manual as your MDS dictionary.You can easily over- or undercode RUG drivers an... Read more
Before You Code, Know The Definition For These Key Items
Use the RAI manual as your MDS dictionary.You can easily over- or undercode RUG drivers an... Read more
Documentation:
Hone Documentation To Support ADL Coding
These simple real-world tips will work wonders.Ambiguous charting is the enemy of accurate... Read more
Hone Documentation To Support ADL Coding
These simple real-world tips will work wonders.Ambiguous charting is the enemy of accurate... Read more
Continuing Education Offering
Ready To Earn Nursing Continuing Education Contact Hours? If you're interested in obtainin... Read more
Ready To Earn Nursing Continuing Education Contact Hours? If you're interested in obtainin... Read more
Resident Assessment:
How To Navigate The MDS Deadline Maze
Cut through the confusion with this guide and expert advice.Time flies when you're doing a... Read more
How To Navigate The MDS Deadline Maze
Cut through the confusion with this guide and expert advice.Time flies when you're doing a... Read more
What Do You Think? Completing R2b, VB2 and VB4 On The Same Day
Could you, would you, should you?Question: Some facilities complete the MDS, do the RAPs a... Read more
Could you, would you, should you?Question: Some facilities complete the MDS, do the RAPs a... Read more
Payment:
Keep The Revenues Rolling By Transmitting MDSs Timely
Follow this advice to stay in the cash flow.Completing the MDS on time is one thing, but g... Read more
Keep The Revenues Rolling By Transmitting MDSs Timely
Follow this advice to stay in the cash flow.Completing the MDS on time is one thing, but g... Read more
Billing:
UB-92s Can Tell You If Rehab RUGs Are Askew
These easy-to-spot inconsistencies signal potential payment woes.UB-92s can give you a qui... Read more
UB-92s Can Tell You If Rehab RUGs Are Askew
These easy-to-spot inconsistencies signal potential payment woes.UB-92s can give you a qui... Read more
Clip 'N' Save:
Nail Down The Deadlines For OBRA Comprehensive Assessments
Keep this chart in a handy place.-- Care plan development or revision is to be completed w... Read more
Nail Down The Deadlines For OBRA Comprehensive Assessments
Keep this chart in a handy place.-- Care plan development or revision is to be completed w... Read more
Ready For The 3rd Quarter Continuing Education Offering?
The learning objectives and test questions covering the July, August and September 2006 MD... Read more
The learning objectives and test questions covering the July, August and September 2006 MD... Read more
RAI Compliance:
Get Your Dates Straight Without Backdating The MDS
Here's one practice you want to avoid.In the MDS compliance world, there are some clear-cu... Read more
Get Your Dates Straight Without Backdating The MDS
Here's one practice you want to avoid.In the MDS compliance world, there are some clear-cu... Read more
RAI Compliance:
Use A Compliant Timeline For A Combined OBRA Admission And 5-Day PPS Assessment
Meet RAI requirements and capture fair payment.Talk about a juggling act: The following ex... Read more
Use A Compliant Timeline For A Combined OBRA Admission And 5-Day PPS Assessment
Meet RAI requirements and capture fair payment.Talk about a juggling act: The following ex... Read more
Quality of Care:
Promote Bed Mobility Without Endangering Residents Or Your Survey Record
If you're checking G6b, make sure you've covered these assessment bases.You're going out o... Read more
Promote Bed Mobility Without Endangering Residents Or Your Survey Record
If you're checking G6b, make sure you've covered these assessment bases.You're going out o... Read more
Coding Quizzer:
Unleash Your Coding Know-How
To code or not to code at P4.Which of the following examples describe scenarios where you'... Read more
Unleash Your Coding Know-How
To code or not to code at P4.Which of the following examples describe scenarios where you'... Read more
MDS Accuracy:
Refrain From Making This Key Mistake In Coding Restraints
Otherwise, your facility may find itself grappling with F tags.Under- or overcode restrain... Read more
Refrain From Making This Key Mistake In Coding Restraints
Otherwise, your facility may find itself grappling with F tags.Under- or overcode restrain... Read more
Documentation:
This Novel Approach Can Provide The 'Rest Of The Story'
A multidisciplinary charting book can personalize care and augment the MDS.Weeding through... Read more
This Novel Approach Can Provide The 'Rest Of The Story'
A multidisciplinary charting book can personalize care and augment the MDS.Weeding through... Read more
Care Planning Tip:
Help Fall-Proof Residents Without Using Waist Belts
This strategy can improve quality of life.Residents who get up without letting you know ca... Read more
Help Fall-Proof Residents Without Using Waist Belts
This strategy can improve quality of life.Residents who get up without letting you know ca... Read more
Clip 'N' Save:
Ask These 7 Questions To See If Your MDSs And Documentation Support Restraint Use
Auditing resident records can give you important QA info.... Read more
Ask These 7 Questions To See If Your MDSs And Documentation Support Restraint Use
Auditing resident records can give you important QA info.... Read more
Payment News
If your SNF is looking for a 3.1 percent bump up in Medicare payment for fiscal 2007, it m... Read more
If your SNF is looking for a 3.1 percent bump up in Medicare payment for fiscal 2007, it m... Read more
Reimbursement:
Slick Up Your ADL Coding With These Quick Audit Strategies
Get the payment you're due and head off medical review.Spotting inaccurate ADL coding does... Read more
Slick Up Your ADL Coding With These Quick Audit Strategies
Get the payment you're due and head off medical review.Spotting inaccurate ADL coding does... Read more
MDS Management:
How To Sew Up Top-Notch Fiscal, Survey Outcomes
4 steps will ensure you avoid common snags in the team process.Teamwork is the name of the... Read more
How To Sew Up Top-Notch Fiscal, Survey Outcomes
4 steps will ensure you avoid common snags in the team process.Teamwork is the name of the... Read more
MDS Accuracy:
Beat The Fiscal Blues With This Simple RUG Audit Tool
Get a quick 'heads up' on whether you're capturing residents' depression.Residents with de... Read more
Beat The Fiscal Blues With This Simple RUG Audit Tool
Get a quick 'heads up' on whether you're capturing residents' depression.Residents with de... Read more
Coding Quizzer:
Did These Residents Receive Task Segmentation?
Put your know-how to the test.Indicate "yes or no" whether each of the following situation... Read more
Did These Residents Receive Task Segmentation?
Put your know-how to the test.Indicate "yes or no" whether each of the following situation... Read more
Resident Assessment:
Troubleshoot These 4 Common Causes Of Missing Mood And Anxiety Indicators
The cure for coding woes at E1 may be simpler than you think.Failing to detect resident's ... Read more
Troubleshoot These 4 Common Causes Of Missing Mood And Anxiety Indicators
The cure for coding woes at E1 may be simpler than you think.Failing to detect resident's ... Read more
Clip 'N' Save:
The Low Down For Capturing A Resident's Depressed Or Sad Mood
Here's what the RUG grouper will count.The resident is considered depressed if he has at l... Read more
The Low Down For Capturing A Resident's Depressed Or Sad Mood
Here's what the RUG grouper will count.The resident is considered depressed if he has at l... Read more
Clip 'N' Save:
TRACKING FOR INDICATORS OF SADNESS, DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY
Whenever any of the behaviors noted below are observed, identify the specific behavior, da... Read more
TRACKING FOR INDICATORS OF SADNESS, DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY
Whenever any of the behaviors noted below are observed, identify the specific behavior, da... Read more
Quality of Care:
Use Task Segmentation To Help Your Residents Succeed In Their ADLs
Hint: Surveyors may be paying closer attention to coding at G7."It's elementary, dea... Read more
Use Task Segmentation To Help Your Residents Succeed In Their ADLs
Hint: Surveyors may be paying closer attention to coding at G7."It's elementary, dea... Read more
RAI Compliance:
Sidestep These Common Mistakes In Performing, Coding Task Segmentation
Otherwise, surveyors or your F1 may take you to task.The best way to deal with red flags i... Read more
Sidestep These Common Mistakes In Performing, Coding Task Segmentation
Otherwise, surveyors or your F1 may take you to task.The best way to deal with red flags i... Read more
Resident Assessment:
This Common ADL Coding Tendency Can Cost You Big Time
Undercoding to avoid hassles leads to payment and care plan shortfalls.ADL undercoding not... Read more
This Common ADL Coding Tendency Can Cost You Big Time
Undercoding to avoid hassles leads to payment and care plan shortfalls.ADL undercoding not... Read more
Resident Assessment:
Know The Coding, Care Plan Ropes For Section G4 (Functional Limitation In Range Of Motion)
Avoid common mistakes that will get the F tags rolling.If you don't know how the scoring w... Read more
Know The Coding, Care Plan Ropes For Section G4 (Functional Limitation In Range Of Motion)
Avoid common mistakes that will get the F tags rolling.If you don't know how the scoring w... Read more
Clip 'N' Save:
Get Your MDS Info In A Row
Check out this form for nursing-related MDS sections.... Read more
Get Your MDS Info In A Row
Check out this form for nursing-related MDS sections.... Read more
MDS & Billing News
Talk about no fun: Starting Oct. 2, 2006, your SNF must submit "no payment bills" and "ben... Read more
Talk about no fun: Starting Oct. 2, 2006, your SNF must submit "no payment bills" and "ben... Read more
Reimbursement:
Tip The Cognitive Performance Scale In Favor Of Fairer Payment
Undercoding Section B can cost you $50 a day in Medicare reimbursement.Coding a resident's... Read more
Tip The Cognitive Performance Scale In Favor Of Fairer Payment
Undercoding Section B can cost you $50 a day in Medicare reimbursement.Coding a resident's... Read more
Resident Assessment:
Make Coding B4 Easy By Using These 2 Strategies
Here's how to ensure you have the right info and documentation.If you're looking for an ac... Read more
Make Coding B4 Easy By Using These 2 Strategies
Here's how to ensure you have the right info and documentation.If you're looking for an ac... Read more
MDS Accuracy:
Miscoding C4 Can = A Lost RUG Placement
A resident's ability to communicate affects the Cognitive Performance Scale.Most people th... Read more
Miscoding C4 Can = A Lost RUG Placement
A resident's ability to communicate affects the Cognitive Performance Scale.Most people th... Read more
Coding Tip:
Double Check These Codes For A Resident In A Coma
Several MDS items confirm a comatose state.Coding a resident's comatose state goes beyond ... Read more
Double Check These Codes For A Resident In A Coma
Several MDS items confirm a comatose state.Coding a resident's comatose state goes beyond ... Read more
MDS Accuracy:
Follow The Logic--Here's How The RUG Grouper Calculates The CPS Score
Detect MDS coding problems that can derail your score.Key: To know if your payment is on t... Read more
Follow The Logic--Here's How The RUG Grouper Calculates The CPS Score
Detect MDS coding problems that can derail your score.Key: To know if your payment is on t... Read more
Activities of Daily Living:
You're Not Home Free Until You Double Check Section G
Ask why the zeroes, 4's and 8's.You know the old diagnostic adage, "When you hear hoofbeat... Read more
You're Not Home Free Until You Double Check Section G
Ask why the zeroes, 4's and 8's.You know the old diagnostic adage, "When you hear hoofbeat... Read more
In The Spotlight:
Take Time To Catapult Cognitive Care Plans To A New Level
Use the Reality Comprehension Clock Test to promote optimal well-being.Use the Reality Com... Read more
Take Time To Catapult Cognitive Care Plans To A New Level
Use the Reality Comprehension Clock Test to promote optimal well-being.Use the Reality Com... Read more
Activities Tip:
Enchant Your Cognitively Impaired Residents With The Right Children's Books
CMS Webcast offers a key suggestion for meeting residents' needs.CMS has traded the verbia... Read more
Enchant Your Cognitively Impaired Residents With The Right Children's Books
CMS Webcast offers a key suggestion for meeting residents' needs.CMS has traded the verbia... Read more
Coding & Documentation:
Don't Let Wound Debridement Lead To F314 Tags
Know how to code, document a wound that looks worse before it gets better.Staging and codi... Read more
Don't Let Wound Debridement Lead To F314 Tags
Know how to code, document a wound that looks worse before it gets better.Staging and codi... Read more
Coding Quizzer:
How To Code B4 In Nonverbal Residents With Dementia
Find out how to handle these 'if and or but' examples.Would you code the following example... Read more
How To Code B4 In Nonverbal Residents With Dementia
Find out how to handle these 'if and or but' examples.Would you code the following example... Read more
Clip 'N' Save:
A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words In Assessing A Cognitively Impaired Resident's Status
Detect visual-spatial problems, pain, other clinical issues.... Read more
A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words In Assessing A Cognitively Impaired Resident's Status
Detect visual-spatial problems, pain, other clinical issues.... Read more
MDS & Billing News
--Use the KX modifier to request an automatic exception to the therapy cap for patients wh... Read more
--Use the KX modifier to request an automatic exception to the therapy cap for patients wh... Read more
MSA Alert:
Second Quarter 2006 CE Offering
TEST QUESTIONS: Directions: Please read the April, May and June 2006 issues of the newslet... Read more
Second Quarter 2006 CE Offering
TEST QUESTIONS: Directions: Please read the April, May and June 2006 issues of the newslet... Read more
Assessment and Coding:
Master Ins And Outs Of Wound Coding In Section M
Use this guide to get this tricky section right.Implement a best-practice system for asses... Read more
Master Ins And Outs Of Wound Coding In Section M
Use this guide to get this tricky section right.Implement a best-practice system for asses... Read more
Wound Assessment:
When The Dx of Diabetic Ulcer Fits, Follow These Steps
Identify and address these hard-to-heal wounds.Just because Section M doesn't have a check... Read more
When The Dx of Diabetic Ulcer Fits, Follow These Steps
Identify and address these hard-to-heal wounds.Just because Section M doesn't have a check... Read more
Coding Tip:
Does Your Turning/Repositioning Program Meet The RAI Manual Definition?
If not, your facility could be headed for a wounding medical review.Simply turning and rep... Read more
Does Your Turning/Repositioning Program Meet The RAI Manual Definition?
If not, your facility could be headed for a wounding medical review.Simply turning and rep... Read more
Survey Compliance:
Use The MDS From 'AC To T' To Individualize And Report Activities
When you equate activities with Section N only, you're asking for F tags.If surveyors tie ... Read more
Use The MDS From 'AC To T' To Individualize And Report Activities
When you equate activities with Section N only, you're asking for F tags.If surveyors tie ... Read more
Resident Assessment:
Keep These MDS Sections On Your Activities Assessment Radar Screen
Home in on this critical information.To develop a top-notch activities plan requires you t... Read more
Keep These MDS Sections On Your Activities Assessment Radar Screen
Home in on this critical information.To develop a top-notch activities plan requires you t... Read more
MDS Accuracy:
Empower CNAs to Report Accurate ADL Assessments
4 key strategies help frontline staff improve Section G1.Your facility's ADL scoring is ne... Read more
Empower CNAs to Report Accurate ADL Assessments
4 key strategies help frontline staff improve Section G1.Your facility's ADL scoring is ne... Read more
Care Planning:
Expect Surveyors To Check How You've Coded N2 (Average Time Involved In Activities)
Avoid the trap of not triggering the RAP.Facilities that overstate the time residents spen... Read more
Expect Surveyors To Check How You've Coded N2 (Average Time Involved In Activities)
Avoid the trap of not triggering the RAP.Facilities that overstate the time residents spen... Read more
Reimbursement:
Refurbish Your Bottom Line--Incorporate Activities In Restorative Nursing
Check out this win-win' approach for your residents and facility.Providing activities can ... Read more
Refurbish Your Bottom Line--Incorporate Activities In Restorative Nursing
Check out this win-win' approach for your residents and facility.Providing activities can ... Read more
Coding Quizzer:
Nail Down N5
Identify residents who want a change in their activities.How would you code this resident'... Read more
Nail Down N5
Identify residents who want a change in their activities.How would you code this resident'... Read more
Quality of Care:
8 Ways CMS Says You Can Help Residents Reengage
Here's how to help those who've lost interest in their usual activities.A gentle nudge int... Read more
8 Ways CMS Says You Can Help Residents Reengage
Here's how to help those who've lost interest in their usual activities.A gentle nudge int... Read more
Clip 'N' Save:
Use This Tool To Accurately Estimate Residents' Time Spent In Activities
Shore up coding accuracy at N2 before your next survey.... Read more
Use This Tool To Accurately Estimate Residents' Time Spent In Activities
Shore up coding accuracy at N2 before your next survey.... Read more
Continuing Education:
Test Yourself and Earn Free Nursing CEUs
MDS Alert is now offering nurses the opportunity to earn 4.5 contact hours in continuing e... Read more
Test Yourself and Earn Free Nursing CEUs
MDS Alert is now offering nurses the opportunity to earn 4.5 contact hours in continuing e... Read more
MDS & Billing News To Use
Nursing homes are taking to DAVE 2 better than they did to its predecessor. That's the wor... Read more
Nursing homes are taking to DAVE 2 better than they did to its predecessor. That's the wor... Read more
Medicare Payment:
4 Solutions To Detect Those Elusive IV Meds
Here's how to stay in the cash flow with your coding at P1ac.If you don't code a resident'... Read more
4 Solutions To Detect Those Elusive IV Meds
Here's how to stay in the cash flow with your coding at P1ac.If you don't code a resident'... Read more
Medicare Billing Tip:
Look For These Key Clues That A Resident's RUG Should End In L Or X
This simple review of your UB-92s can save you beaucoup dollars.Better late than never, th... Read more
Look For These Key Clues That A Resident's RUG Should End In L Or X
This simple review of your UB-92s can save you beaucoup dollars.Better late than never, th... Read more
Medicare Compliance:
Brush Up On The RAI Manual Rules For Excluding IV Medications
Know when to forego coding at P1ac.Not all IV medications are created equal in the MDS cod... Read more
Brush Up On The RAI Manual Rules For Excluding IV Medications
Know when to forego coding at P1ac.Not all IV medications are created equal in the MDS cod... Read more
Medicare Compliance:
Know The ABCs Of Part A Medical Necessity For Your Pneumonia Patients
There's more to skilling a resident for pneumonia than coding it on the MDS.Pneumonia is o... Read more
Know The ABCs Of Part A Medical Necessity For Your Pneumonia Patients
There's more to skilling a resident for pneumonia than coding it on the MDS.Pneumonia is o... Read more
Coding Quizzer:
Rest Easy--Double Check Your Bed Mobility Coding Ability
Ready, set, code...Test your ADL assessment prowess by coding this RAI user's manual bed-m... Read more
Rest Easy--Double Check Your Bed Mobility Coding Ability
Ready, set, code...Test your ADL assessment prowess by coding this RAI user's manual bed-m... Read more
MDS Coding:
Root Out ADL Inaccuracies
Dig your facility out of a payment black hole.The minute someone talks about improving ADL... Read more
Root Out ADL Inaccuracies
Dig your facility out of a payment black hole.The minute someone talks about improving ADL... Read more
MDS Accuracy:
Take The Guesswork Out Of ADL Index Calculation
The calculation isn't a straightforward one.A resident's ADL index is one score that you n... Read more
Take The Guesswork Out Of ADL Index Calculation
The calculation isn't a straightforward one.A resident's ADL index is one score that you n... Read more
Pain Assessment:
Use The MDS To Rein In Pain And F Tags
Heads up: The survey stakes for keeping pain in check will soon be higher.Failing to... Read more
Use The MDS To Rein In Pain And F Tags
Heads up: The survey stakes for keeping pain in check will soon be higher.Failing to... Read more
Survey Management:
Find Out What Suryeyors Might Cite As Pain-Related Actual Harm Or IJ
Make sure these examples don't occur in your facility.The new Psychosocial Severity Outcom... Read more
Find Out What Suryeyors Might Cite As Pain-Related Actual Harm Or IJ
Make sure these examples don't occur in your facility.The new Psychosocial Severity Outcom... Read more
MDS & Billing News To Use
MDS-driven RUG overpayments abound, according to an Office of Inspector General (OIG) audi... Read more
MDS-driven RUG overpayments abound, according to an Office of Inspector General (OIG) audi... Read more
Medicare Payment:
Missing RUG Drivers Can Turn Your Facility Into A Fiscal Wreck
Are these MDS omissions taking a toll on your bottom line?Omit a single clinical condition... Read more
Missing RUG Drivers Can Turn Your Facility Into A Fiscal Wreck
Are these MDS omissions taking a toll on your bottom line?Omit a single clinical condition... Read more
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Know What Puts A Resident Into SE1, SE2 and SE3
When the resident RUGs into extensive services, the count is on...Source: Diane Brow... Read more
Know What Puts A Resident Into SE1, SE2 and SE3
When the resident RUGs into extensive services, the count is on...Source: Diane Brow... Read more
Medicare Payment:
2 Ways To Keep Your RUG Drivers On Track
Stop inaccuracies from derailing payment.A little help on the front and back end of the MD... Read more
2 Ways To Keep Your RUG Drivers On Track
Stop inaccuracies from derailing payment.A little help on the front and back end of the MD... Read more
CMS Update:
Get Ahead Of The Curve Of DAVE 2, The MDS 3.0 And Quality-Based Purchasing
CMS official provides a road map to the near future.You're going to have your plate full k... Read more
Get Ahead Of The Curve Of DAVE 2, The MDS 3.0 And Quality-Based Purchasing
CMS official provides a road map to the near future.You're going to have your plate full k... Read more
What Do You Think? To Code Or Not To Code Pneumonia
How would you answer these 2 questions?Questions: (1) When is a diagnosis of pneumonia a r... Read more
How would you answer these 2 questions?Questions: (1) When is a diagnosis of pneumonia a r... Read more
Resident Assessment:
Drill Down Your Bed Mobility Assessment To Prevent Pressure Ulcers
Identify residents who really need a turning and repositioning program.Facilities that aut... Read more
Drill Down Your Bed Mobility Assessment To Prevent Pressure Ulcers
Identify residents who really need a turning and repositioning program.Facilities that aut... Read more
Clip 'N' Save:
Check Out This Performance Test For Repositioning
Assess, score residents' ability to turn/reposition without hands-on help.PERFORMANCE ASSE... Read more
Check Out This Performance Test For Repositioning
Assess, score residents' ability to turn/reposition without hands-on help.PERFORMANCE ASSE... Read more
Quality Indicators:
If Your Fall QIs Are High--Or Low--Take These Steps
To solve a problem, you need to know if you have one.Before you panic about a high fa... Read more
If Your Fall QIs Are High--Or Low--Take These Steps
To solve a problem, you need to know if you have one.Before you panic about a high fa... Read more
Care Planning:
Use Section G3 To Get A Heads Up On Residents With Balance Problems
Compare your coding to the resident's care plan.Balance problems coded in Section G3 can f... Read more
Use Section G3 To Get A Heads Up On Residents With Balance Problems
Compare your coding to the resident's care plan.Balance problems coded in Section G3 can f... Read more
Medicare Billing:
Don't Stumble Over OMRAs--Make Sure Billing Gets Its HIPPS Straight
Billing OMRAs incorrectly could land your facility in hot water with auditors.Doing OMRAs ... Read more
Don't Stumble Over OMRAs--Make Sure Billing Gets Its HIPPS Straight
Billing OMRAs incorrectly could land your facility in hot water with auditors.Doing OMRAs ... Read more
Medicare Billing:
To Prevent OMRA Woes, Keep The Info Flowing To Billing
3 ways to ensure everyone is on the same payment page.Keeping your OMRA billing straight i... Read more
To Prevent OMRA Woes, Keep The Info Flowing To Billing
3 ways to ensure everyone is on the same payment page.Keeping your OMRA billing straight i... Read more
Coding Quizzer:
Find Out What Hollywood And Dx Coding Have In Common
Use your coding expertise to solve these movie riddles. Find the missing term and code it.... Read more
Find Out What Hollywood And Dx Coding Have In Common
Use your coding expertise to solve these movie riddles. Find the missing term and code it.... Read more
Clip 'N' Save:
Get Your Billing Info In A Row
Providing the right data can prevent payment problems down the road.... Read more
Get Your Billing Info In A Row
Providing the right data can prevent payment problems down the road.... Read more
MDS & Billing News To Use
Look for the Section W-driven immunization quality measures to be posted this fall. The Ce... Read more
Look for the Section W-driven immunization quality measures to be posted this fall. The Ce... Read more
MDS Alert:
First Quarter 2006 CE Offering
TEST QUESTIONS: Directions: Please read the January, February and March 2006 issues of the... Read more
First Quarter 2006 CE Offering
TEST QUESTIONS: Directions: Please read the January, February and March 2006 issues of the... Read more
Medicare:
Don't Let OMRA Confusion Throw You For A Loop
Follow these decision-making pointers.When a rehab resident's therapy treatment ends, the ... Read more
Don't Let OMRA Confusion Throw You For A Loop
Follow these decision-making pointers.When a rehab resident's therapy treatment ends, the ... Read more
Medicare:
Beware--Auditors Can 'Stumble' Across Your OMRA Missteps
Don't let undetected snafus wreak havoc.An unintentional pattern of errant OMRAs that tip ... Read more
Beware--Auditors Can 'Stumble' Across Your OMRA Missteps
Don't let undetected snafus wreak havoc.An unintentional pattern of errant OMRAs that tip ... Read more
Risk Assessment:
The Right Risk Score Doesn't Mean You're Home Free In Preventing Ulcers
Look for the 'rest of the story' in assessing a resident's risk.A risk score on a standard... Read more
The Right Risk Score Doesn't Mean You're Home Free In Preventing Ulcers
Look for the 'rest of the story' in assessing a resident's risk.A risk score on a standard... Read more
Resident Assessment Protocols:
Tap The RAP To Stay One Step Ahead Of Pressure Ulcer Risk
Double-check coding for MDS triggers.Don't fall in the trap of not working the pressure ul... Read more
Tap The RAP To Stay One Step Ahead Of Pressure Ulcer Risk
Double-check coding for MDS triggers.Don't fall in the trap of not working the pressure ul... Read more
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Before You Call Your Risk Assessment A Wrap, Check Out The Pressure Ulcer RAP
PRESSURE ULCERS CARE RAP KEY TRIGGERS Pressure ulcer present or risk for occurrence... Read more
Before You Call Your Risk Assessment A Wrap, Check Out The Pressure Ulcer RAP
PRESSURE ULCERS CARE RAP KEY TRIGGERS Pressure ulcer present or risk for occurrence... Read more
Risk Assessment:
Cover Your Risks--Compare Standardized Assessment Tools
Are you augmenting assessments with individualized data collection?Check out the different... Read more
Cover Your Risks--Compare Standardized Assessment Tools
Are you augmenting assessments with individualized data collection?Check out the different... Read more
In The Spotlight:
Jump Hurdles To Achieve Optimal Therapy Outcomes, Fair RUG Payment
Put everyone's piece of the care, fiscal equation on the table.If your facility wants to g... Read more
Jump Hurdles To Achieve Optimal Therapy Outcomes, Fair RUG Payment
Put everyone's piece of the care, fiscal equation on the table.If your facility wants to g... Read more
Medicare:
Double-Check Therapy Days In the Lookback
Keep your days, minutes straight at P1b."Eight Days a Week" is not enough to show you care... Read more
Double-Check Therapy Days In the Lookback
Keep your days, minutes straight at P1b."Eight Days a Week" is not enough to show you care... Read more
Resident Assessment:
An ADL Decline Detected In Time Can Save Your Survey Record And Bottom Line
Use this simple strategy to catch a resident's significant change.If you don't spot Medica... Read more
An ADL Decline Detected In Time Can Save Your Survey Record And Bottom Line
Use this simple strategy to catch a resident's significant change.If you don't spot Medica... Read more
Coding Quizzer:
Master Coding Wounds In Section M
How would code this resident's ulcers?Mr. C has diabetes and poor circulation to his ... Read more
Master Coding Wounds In Section M
How would code this resident's ulcers?Mr. C has diabetes and poor circulation to his ... Read more
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Know The Difference Between Supervision, Limited And Extensive Assistance
The key to coding is in the definitions.A little review never hurt anyone coding ADLs, whi... Read more
Know The Difference Between Supervision, Limited And Extensive Assistance
The key to coding is in the definitions.A little review never hurt anyone coding ADLs, whi... Read more
Test Yourself:
Nail Down When To Do A Significant Change Assessment, An OMRA--Or Both
How would you handle these therapy scenarios?Rehab therapy patients who improve during the... Read more
Nail Down When To Do A Significant Change Assessment, An OMRA--Or Both
How would you handle these therapy scenarios?Rehab therapy patients who improve during the... Read more
Continuing Education:
Test Yourself and Earn Free Nursing CEUs
MDS Alert is now offering nurses the opportunity to earn 4.5 contact hours in continuing e... Read more
Test Yourself and Earn Free Nursing CEUs
MDS Alert is now offering nurses the opportunity to earn 4.5 contact hours in continuing e... Read more
MDS & Billing News
Check out the January 2006 RAI manual update. The update includes changes to the triggers ... Read more
Check out the January 2006 RAI manual update. The update includes changes to the triggers ... Read more
MDS Alert:
First Quarter 2006 CE Offering
TEST QUESTIONS: Directions: Please read the January, February and March 2006 issues of the... Read more
First Quarter 2006 CE Offering
TEST QUESTIONS: Directions: Please read the January, February and March 2006 issues of the... Read more
Medicare Payment:
Manage Significant Change Assessments Before They Drain Your Coffers
Follow these strategies to secure fair reimbursement for services.MDS teams that don't kno... Read more
Manage Significant Change Assessments Before They Drain Your Coffers
Follow these strategies to secure fair reimbursement for services.MDS teams that don't kno... Read more
Coding Tip:
Know How To Code An SCSA Outside The Medicare Assessment Window
When you do a significant change assessment outside the assessment window for a regularly ... Read more
Know How To Code An SCSA Outside The Medicare Assessment Window
When you do a significant change assessment outside the assessment window for a regularly ... Read more
Survey Management:
Get Your UTI Coding In Line With New Survey Expectations
Beware: Surveyors have their eyes on UTIs.Coding urinary tract infection correctly h... Read more
Get Your UTI Coding In Line With New Survey Expectations
Beware: Surveyors have their eyes on UTIs.Coding urinary tract infection correctly h... Read more
Resident Assessment:
Develop UTI Assessment Protocols for Residents With Dementia
A decision tree can keep you from climbing out on a limb on your next survey.A resident wi... Read more
Develop UTI Assessment Protocols for Residents With Dementia
A decision tree can keep you from climbing out on a limb on your next survey.A resident wi... Read more
Coding Quizzer:
Determine The Degree Of Urinary Incontinence At H1b
How would you code this scenario?Although Mrs. T is generally continent of urine, every on... Read more
Determine The Degree Of Urinary Incontinence At H1b
How would you code this scenario?Although Mrs. T is generally continent of urine, every on... Read more
Quality of Care:
4 Ways to Keep UTIs Off The Survey Radar Screen
Target risks and don't be fooled by conditions that mimic infection.Err on the side of ove... Read more
4 Ways to Keep UTIs Off The Survey Radar Screen
Target risks and don't be fooled by conditions that mimic infection.Err on the side of ove... Read more
Survey Compliance:
Check For These 3 Conditions When You Code An Indwelling Catheter (H3d)
F315 guidance spells out scenarios for catheter use exceeding 14 days.Indwelling catheters... Read more
Check For These 3 Conditions When You Code An Indwelling Catheter (H3d)
F315 guidance spells out scenarios for catheter use exceeding 14 days.Indwelling catheters... Read more
Quality Improvement:
Evaluate Residents With Catheters
Does your documentation cover these assessment bases?Facilities should consider screening ... Read more
Evaluate Residents With Catheters
Does your documentation cover these assessment bases?Facilities should consider screening ... Read more
Case Management:
Capitalize On Rehab Low Plus Extensive Services For Certain Types Of Patients
New RUG offers formula for improved care and better payment.Case management has always bee... Read more
Capitalize On Rehab Low Plus Extensive Services For Certain Types Of Patients
New RUG offers formula for improved care and better payment.Case management has always bee... Read more
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Know The Requirements For RLX On The 5-Day And Subsequent MDS Assessments
Here's what you need to capture during the assessment reference period.Classifying a resid... Read more
Know The Requirements For RLX On The 5-Day And Subsequent MDS Assessments
Here's what you need to capture during the assessment reference period.Classifying a resid... Read more
Care Planning:
Don't Let Surveyors Accuse You Of Being Asleep At The Assessment Wheel
Evaluate the reason for a hypnotic coded at O4d.Anytime you code a hypnotic at O4d, revisi... Read more
Don't Let Surveyors Accuse You Of Being Asleep At The Assessment Wheel
Evaluate the reason for a hypnotic coded at O4d.Anytime you code a hypnotic at O4d, revisi... Read more
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What Counts As A Significant Change In Status?
CMS sets guideposts for navigating this clinical conundrum.The RAI manual provides the fol... Read more
What Counts As A Significant Change In Status?
CMS sets guideposts for navigating this clinical conundrum.The RAI manual provides the fol... Read more
MDS Integrity:
DAVE 2--Coming Soon To A Nursing Facility Near You
CMS to look at how MDS data impact RUG classification, QIs, care planning.Just when you th... Read more
DAVE 2--Coming Soon To A Nursing Facility Near You
CMS to look at how MDS data impact RUG classification, QIs, care planning.Just when you th... Read more
What Do You Think?
Question: Can you set the ARD for an SCSA on the 14th day following determination of the s... Read more
Question: Can you set the ARD for an SCSA on the 14th day following determination of the s... Read more
Medicare Payment:
Don't Pull The New RUGs Out From Your Bottom Line On The 14-Day MDS
Focus on the 5-day ARD only will leave your payment cup half full.If you go the extra mile... Read more
Don't Pull The New RUGs Out From Your Bottom Line On The 14-Day MDS
Focus on the 5-day ARD only will leave your payment cup half full.If you go the extra mile... Read more
Medicare Payment:
Running In Circles Trying To Set The Best ARD? Here's How To Cut To The Chase
Use a calendar to capture a resident's highest service utilization.So many MDSs to do, so ... Read more
Running In Circles Trying To Set The Best ARD? Here's How To Cut To The Chase
Use a calendar to capture a resident's highest service utilization.So many MDSs to do, so ... Read more
Practice Tip:
Capture The Big 3 For Rehab Plus Extensive Services
Triage MDS items that land a resident in one of the new RUGs.To help the MDS team set the ... Read more
Capture The Big 3 For Rehab Plus Extensive Services
Triage MDS items that land a resident in one of the new RUGs.To help the MDS team set the ... Read more
Clip 'N' Save:
Is Your Preadmission Screening Covering The Bases?
Check out this form for capturing RUG drivers.Source: FR&R Healthcare Consulting... Read more
Is Your Preadmission Screening Covering The Bases?
Check out this form for capturing RUG drivers.Source: FR&R Healthcare Consulting... Read more
Survey Compliance:
Use The MDS To Red Flag Physician Care Shortfalls
That way you won't take a tumble under the revised F501 tag.Are your attending physicians ... Read more
Use The MDS To Red Flag Physician Care Shortfalls
That way you won't take a tumble under the revised F501 tag.Are your attending physicians ... Read more
Case Study:
Quality Assurance and Survey Management--Streamline Physician Summary Forms To Tackle High QIs And F501 Noncompliance
Cue physicians to give the answers you need.If you're looking for a way to ensure physicia... Read more
Quality Assurance and Survey Management--Streamline Physician Summary Forms To Tackle High QIs And F501 Noncompliance
Cue physicians to give the answers you need.If you're looking for a way to ensure physicia... Read more
Coding Quizzer
A resident receives a physician exam during an unscheduled emergency room visit. ... Read more
A resident receives a physician exam during an unscheduled emergency room visit. ... Read more
Quality Improvement:
The MDS Can Give Your End-Of-Life Care A Quality Reality Check
Research analysis flags gaps--make sure your facility isn't falling into them.Your MDS ass... Read more
The MDS Can Give Your End-Of-Life Care A Quality Reality Check
Research analysis flags gaps--make sure your facility isn't falling into them.Your MDS ass... Read more
Medication Management:
Take A Close Look At Meds For Residents Near End Of Life
The total number will likely decline but the mix should change.Palliative care is about pr... Read more
Take A Close Look At Meds For Residents Near End Of Life
The total number will likely decline but the mix should change.Palliative care is about pr... Read more
In The Spotlight:
Get In Step With Residents' Palliative Care Needs
Find out how this facility is thinking and care planning outside of the box.Providing stat... Read more
Get In Step With Residents' Palliative Care Needs
Find out how this facility is thinking and care planning outside of the box.Providing stat... Read more
MDS & Billing News
It's here ...Medicare Part D drug coverage for all Medicare beneficiaries goes into effect... Read more
It's here ...Medicare Part D drug coverage for all Medicare beneficiaries goes into effect... Read more
What Do You Think?
Question: Should your facility do preadmission screening to determine whether to accept a ... Read more
Question: Should your facility do preadmission screening to determine whether to accept a ... Read more
Nursing CEU Offering:
Ready, Set--Earn Free Nursing CEUs From MDS Alert
We have great news for busy nursing professionals who want to earn continuing education cr... Read more
Ready, Set--Earn Free Nursing CEUs From MDS Alert
We have great news for busy nursing professionals who want to earn continuing education cr... Read more