MDS Nurse

PACS

About The Position

The MDS Nurse (LVN/LPN) coordinates and completes Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessments in compliance with federal and state regulations. The role supports accurate resident-care documentation, care planning, and Medicare/Medicaid reimbursement, and works with interdisciplinary teams to promote quality resident outcomes. The position has no supervisory requirements. It involves collaborating with nursing, therapy, social services, and dietary staff; participating in care conferences and quality improvement initiatives; helping with audits and surveys; and providing staff guidance on documentation standards and MDS requirements. The nurse also communicates with residents and families about care planning and keeps current with regulatory changes affecting MDS and skilled nursing documentation.

Requirements

Current LVN/LPN license in the state of practice.
Knowledge of MDS 3.0, the RAI process, and Medicare/Medicaid reimbursement guidelines.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail and accuracy.
Ability to work collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams.
Proficiency in electronic health records (EHR) systems.
Ability to read, write, speak, and understand English; read technical procedures and policy and procedure manuals; present information and respond to questions; and communicate information about a resident’s condition.
Ability to apply fractions, percentages, ratios, and proportions to practical situations.
Ability to solve practical problems, work with concrete variables where limited standardization exists, and interpret written, oral, diagram, or schedule instructions.
Proficiency in Microsoft Suite products.
Maintain required continuing education and licensing and remain in good standing with the State Board of Nursing.
Occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds; prolonged computer use; regularly sit, stand, walk, talk, read, or hear; and frequently use office equipment.
Travel by auto or airline may be required.

Nice To Haves

Prior experience in long-term care or a skilled nursing facility is preferred.

Responsibilities

Complete MDS assessments and care area assessments (CAAs) within required timelines.
Ensure resident clinical documentation is accurate and supports care planning and reimbursement.
Maintain compliance with CMS, state, and facility guidelines.
Collaborate with interdisciplinary team members to develop individualized care plans.
Monitor resident progress and update care plans as needed.
Participate in resident care conferences and quality improvement initiatives.
Ensure MDS submissions meet regulatory requirements for Medicare/Medicaid reimbursement.
Assist with audits and surveys by providing accurate documentation and reports.
Stay current with regulatory changes affecting MDS and skilled nursing documentation.
Work with nursing staff, therapy, social services, and dietary teams to gather resident information.
Provide education and guidance to staff on documentation standards and MDS requirements.
Communicate with residents and families regarding care planning.