What does an MDS RN do?

MDS stands for Minimum Data Set which is a comprehensive assessment for your long term care pt.
All areas are assessed including:
Pt care- how much can the pt do for himself and how much assist is needed by staff.
Illness and history.
Dietary hx
Activity participation
Social service needs.
Therapy minutes and anticipated needs.

These assessments are done at set intervals with more frequent assessments for Medicare pts.
The assessments are used for reimbursment from medicare and medicaid and pay may be based on the acuity of the pt.
Many facilities also base their staffing on the acuity generated by the MDS.
It is a difficult job but it can be rewarding.
Give yourself a minimum of 6 months to get comfortable with the job and make sure the facility provides you a support person to ask your many questions (at least by phone).
You can also PM me. I did it for 3 years.
-Russell
The MDS coordinator must work with all the other disciplines

I have been a MDS Coord for 12 years, I would be glad to assist you in any way that I can.
MaryEtta from Ky