By which day must the MDS be completed for a newly admitted resident?

The Minimum Data Set (MDS) is a comprehensive assessment tool used in long-term care facilities to evaluate the functional capabilities of residents and to help in determining their care needs. Federal regulations require that the MDS for a newly admitted resident must be completed within a specific timeframe. For newly admitted residents, this assessment must be completed by Day 14 after admission.

Completing the MDS by Day 14 ensures that the resident's care plan can be developed with accurate and timely information about their health status, functional ability, and any other needs they may have. This timeline is critical because it allows for an early identification of issues that can inform the interventions needed for proper care.

Understanding this timeframe is essential for ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and providing optimal care tailored to the needs of the residents in a nursing facility. In addition, timely completion helps in the accurate reporting and quality assurance aspects of care provided to residents.