Let's avoid F tags related to the Revised Guidance for Long-Term Care Facility Assessment Requirements

Summary of Nursing Home Facility Assessment

The Nursing Home Facility Assessment, as outlined by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), is a comprehensive evaluation required under §483.71. This assessment is crucial for identifying the necessary resources to provide competent care to residents during day-to-day operations and emergencies. The assessment must be reviewed and updated at least annually or whenever significant changes occur.

Key Components of the Facility Assessment

1. Resident Population:
2. Facility Resources:
3. Risk Assessment:
4. Active Involvement:
5. Use of Assessment:

Summary of CMS Revisions to Facility Assessment

As per the recent CMS revisions (highlighted in yellow in the document), effective August 8, 2024, the updated facility assessment must now include:

• Evaluation of Acuity: A detailed assessment of residents’ severity of illnesses, physical, mental, and cognitive limitations.
• Resident Needs: Determination of additional resident needs such as physical space, equipment, and communication devices.
• Staff Competencies: Detailed evaluation of necessary staff skills and competencies based on resident needs.
• Involvement of Direct Care Staff: Direct care staff must be actively involved in the assessment process.
• Cultural and Religious Factors: Consideration of ethnic, cultural, or religious factors that may impact care.

Expectations for Compliance

Surveyors will review facility assessments to ensure they include all required components and reflect the resident population accurately. Noncompliance may result in citations and the requirement for corrective action. Facilities must ensure assessments are updated regularly and whenever significant changes occur to maintain compliance and provide optimal resident care.

Implementation

Facilities are expected to integrate these requirements into their strategic and operational planning. The assessment process should involve a thorough review of the resident population and resources, actively involving leadership and staff, and incorporating feedback from residents and their families. This ensures a comprehensive approach to meet regulatory requirements and enhance resident care.

For further details, refer to the CMS guidance document, QSO-24-13-NH Facility

https://www.cms.gov/files/document/qso-24-13-nh.pdf

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Supporting Nursing Directors and Administrators to avoid Nursing Home F-Tags