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MDS (Minimum Data Set) nurse is a key tool in the process of assessing the functional capabilities of residents of our skilled nursing facilities. This role requires a registered nurse (RN) who conducts federally mandated assessments of the patients. MDS nurses are responsible for collecting integral data and compiling it into a thorough report for further research at their facility. A bachelor's degree from an accredited nursing college is required.

The objective of MDS coordinators is to promote the physical and emotional well being of nursing facility residents. They use a Resident Assessment Instrument (RAI) to gather information from residents and their families during initial and periodic interviews. The MDS covers such areas as the patient's mood, behavior patterns, cognitive ability, and nutrition needs.

Information from these assessments helps caretakers formulate individualized care plans that include support from social services, dieticians, rehab specialists, and medical staff. MDS coordinators then implement and monitor these care plans to ensure their effectiveness. They must also make sure all strategies comply with Medicare and Medicaid requirements and ethical standards. An MDS nurse is the main communicator between the insurance professionals and management officials at their facility.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Completes assessments, Minimum Data Set (MDS) and care plans for all residents assigned

• Monitors completion of MDSs by other disciplines within timeframes prescribed by regulatory guidelines

• Advises supervisor of incomplete and/or untimely assessments by disciplines other than nursing

• Ensures accurate, timely completion of the MDS/RAPs/Triggers sheet for assigned residents

• Initiates care plans and supporting activities that will result in best possible outcome for assigned residents

• Generates and distributes monthly care plan calendar for the following month

• Conducts care plan conferences for assigned residents

• Maintains and updates all care plans and assessments for assigned residents on a quarterly basis (at minimum) and adds/deletes issues as necessary

• Reviews all resident incidents and accidents and the 24-hour report daily to ensure that care plans for assigned residents reflect current and changing needs

• Supports and promotes facility and company standards for superior custom service by exhibiting positive, courteous, and helpful behavior when dealing with all internal and external customers

• Complies with established standards described in facility policies and procedures, code of conduct, corporate compliance plan, employee handbook and other company documents and publications

WORK EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS

• One year previous experience in long term care environment.

• Knowledge of MDS and Care Plan process.

Minimum Job Skills Requirements

• Must hold a current RN license in Massachusetts