MDS Nurse

About the Role:

The MDS Nurse plays a critical role in the healthcare and social assistance sector by conducting comprehensive assessments of residents in long-term care facilities using the Minimum Data Set (MDS) framework. This position ensures accurate and timely collection, analysis, and documentation of clinical data to support individualized care planning and regulatory compliance. The MDS Nurse collaborates closely with interdisciplinary teams to interpret assessment results and implement care strategies that enhance patient outcomes and quality of life. Additionally, this role involves ongoing monitoring and reassessment to capture changes in residents' health status, facilitating appropriate adjustments to care plans. Ultimately, the MDS Nurse contributes to the facility’s operational excellence by ensuring data integrity and supporting reimbursement processes through precise MDS submissions.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Current and valid Registered Nurse (RN) or LPN license in MO.
• Minimum of 2 years clinical nursing experience, preferably in long-term care or skilled nursing facilities.
• Demonstrated knowledge of the Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessment process and federal regulations governing long-term care.
• Proficiency in electronic health record (EHR) systems and clinical documentation.
• Strong understanding of resident care planning and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification as an MDS Coordinator or completion of specialized MDS training programs.
• Experience with quality assurance and regulatory compliance in long-term care settings.
• Familiarity with Medicare and Medicaid reimbursement methodologies related to MDS.
• Advanced clinical certifications such as Geriatric Nursing Certification (RN-BC).
• Experience using data analytics tools to support clinical decision-making.

Responsibilities:

• Conduct thorough and accurate MDS assessments for residents in accordance with federal and state regulations.
• Collaborate with interdisciplinary care teams including physicians, therapists, and social workers to develop and update individualized care plans based on assessment findings.
• Ensure timely completion and submission of MDS documentation to support compliance and reimbursement requirements.
• Monitor residents’ health status continuously and perform reassessments as needed to reflect changes in condition.
• Provide education and training to nursing staff on MDS processes, documentation standards, and regulatory updates.
• Review clinical records and communicate with healthcare providers to verify data accuracy and completeness.
• Participate in quality improvement initiatives related to resident care and MDS accuracy.

Skills:

The MDS Nurse utilizes clinical assessment skills daily to gather comprehensive resident data, ensuring accuracy and completeness in documentation. Strong communication skills are essential for effective collaboration with interdisciplinary teams and for educating staff on MDS procedures. Analytical skills are applied to interpret assessment data, identify trends, and support care planning decisions that improve resident outcomes. Proficiency with electronic health records and data management systems enables efficient submission and tracking of MDS documentation. Additionally, problem-solving skills help the nurse address discrepancies in data and adapt to regulatory changes, maintaining compliance and optimizing reimbursement.