skill criteria

Assuming the technical requirement is already met...

The administration of q36h IV medication alone does not meet the "daily" need criterion. However, if the condition for which the IV medication is required, presents a probability of complications that requires daily observation and monitoring by skilled personnel, then the skilled care criteria would be met.

Examples: Observing the resident daily for adverse IV drug effect/s; monitoring VS and lab tests; checking daily for onset of weakness which may interfere w/ adequate nutrition/hydration, immobility which can lead to increase risk of skin breakdown or developing pneumonia; and the need to review and revise the care plan to address the effects of illness.

see http://www.cms.hhs.gov/manuals/Downloads/bp102c08.pdf

30.2.2 - Principles for Determining Whether a Service is Skilled

(Rev. 1, 10-01-03) pp 21-25

Not to hijack the thread or anything, but Talino... you are absolutely awesome at knowing where to find your sources. I feel I usually know the answers too, but wow.. be damned if I could ever come up with the supporting documentation to support the answers.

You are just GOOD! :bowingpur