New RNAC

Have set days/times for your Meetings.

Hold the other Disciplines accountable for their MDS Sections/other duties as assigned.

Take Concerns/Issues to your Administrator.

Do NOT allow the Clinical Dept. (Nursing) to "delegate" their duties to your Dept.

Good Luck!

]Write down everything that you do for each day of the week.

]It sounds crazy but after doing this for many years, I found that writing down my routine for each day helps me streamline the process and also make sure that each component of my work is done. Example:

]1-Print census Qday. ( I cover a rehab unit, the census changes daily)

]2. gather data collection tools - (basically print/gather everything you need for data collection)

]-print mds form for each resident (edit the form in red with your responses.)

]- review pre admission info

]-review financial info

]- print interview sheet

]- print Med a tracker form (ensure that resident scores the RUG that is projected)

]-review ADL reports, nursing notes, review rehab notes and assessments for functional data to code ADLs

]-complete chart review for all other data/MARs/TARs

]-interview resident /family/sig other and staff

]Make sure to check with your billing department to see which V codes you need on the MDS form to reconcile with the UB form (Universal billing form) and any other specific codes

]Keep a computer copy of your MDS schedule. You can update it as needed and then print.

]Keep all the sheets when you write down everything you do.

]You can turn that into your daily job function record and also your job description.

]I also have created many forms over the years and still use most of them to date. Just update as needed.

]Lastly, give yourself a full year to learn the MDS/CAA.

]Use the manual daily. I didn't when the MDS plus started and I regret it. Then, give yourself time to settle into the job. It is an ongoing process; you will learn something every day. Get certified through AANAC and use their online forums. There are many great minds out there, you can learn from everyone. Use the CMS website and of course allnurses.com. Best of luck and remember--"what doesn't kill you makes you stronger". TJD -email me if you want any forms.

I forgot the most important thing...SAVE ALL YOUR EMAILS!!! Since we now communticate via emails, save them, forever. Create folders by department and move them to the folders. You can print them as proof that you had communication with a department.

Thanks for the tips! I would definitely appreciate those forms! How do I email you?

Never forget that facility income depends on your ability to do your job. Never settle for a situation where you do not have the tools or people to do the job right. Any Administrator knows your value, but be sure you always remember your value. Never work the floor, never take call, focus on what you do. And, more practically, use Excel spread sheets whenever you can. Pay attention to any corporate stats you get in e-mails, know your skilled length of stay for the month, know how many skilled patients you are following, and know your patients.

Welcome to the best job in health care! ST