Correction to the Fourth Quarter 2007 Clinical Frequently Asked Questions
We have been informed of incorrect information contained in one of our recent FAQs. We apologize for any confusion that may have occurred as a result of this error and are providing you with the correct information now.
Q. Is it acceptable for Physical Therapy (PT) Assistants or Occupational Therapy (OT) Assistants to sign the MDS? (September 2007)
A. Yes, according to the RAI Manual, all persons participating in the completion of the MDS should sign it. However, Section R of the MDS must be signed by the Registered Nurse (RN) coordinating the assessment.
PARTICIPANTS IN THE ASSESSMENT PROCESS
Federal regulations require that the RAI assessment must be conducted or coordinated with the appropriate participation of health professionals. Although not required, completion of the RAI is best accomplished by an interdisciplinary team that includes facility staff with varied clinical backgrounds. Such a team brings their combined experience and knowledge together for a better understanding of the strengths, needs and preferences of each resident to ensure the best possible quality of care and quality of life. In general, participation by all relevant interdisciplinary team members will encourage more active and appropriate assessment and care planning processes.
Facilities have flexibility in determining who should participate in the assessment process as long as it is accurately conducted. A facility may assign responsibility for completing the RAI to a number of qualified staff members. In most cases, participants in the assessment process are licensed health professionals. It is the facility’s responsibility to ensure that all participants in the assessment process have the requisite knowledge to complete an accurate and comprehensive assessment.
RAI Manual Chapter1, Section 1.12
AA9. Signatures of Persons Completing These Items
Coding: All staff responsible for completing any part of the MDS, MPAF, and/or tracking forms must enter their signatures, titles, sections they completed, and the date they completed those sections. Read the Attestation Statement carefully. You are certifying that the information you entered on the MDS, MPAF, and/or tracking form is correct. Penalties may be applied for submitting false information.
RAI Manual Chapter 3
Page Last Updated: Tuesday, 15-Jul-2008 10:34:58 CDT
