[NRSKarenRN]

CMS Policy Change for Accurate Coding of Surgical Wounds
http://www.cms.hhs.gov/HomeHealthQualityInits/14_HHQIOASISUserManual.asp.

Based on the current advances in wound care research, CMS will follow the recently revised guidance on the Wound Ostomy Continence Nurses Society (WOCN) Guidance Document on "OASIS Skin and Wound Status M0 Items" (revised July 2006) regarding the lack of scientific evidence supporting the finding of the healing ridge in the assessment of surgical wounds closed by primary intention.
CMS encourages clinicians to follow the guidance suggested in the WOCN Guidance Document on "OASIS Skin and Wound Status M0 Items" (revised July 2006) in the assessment of surgical wounds, specifically in the assessment of M0488 Status of Most Problematic (Observable) Surgical Wound. This document is found at: http://www.wocn.org

Note:

• The revision date of 07/2006 is found in the document's footer.
• This policy guidance for accurate coding of surgical wounds becomes effective 07/27/2006.

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WOCN Guidance on Oasis Skin and Wound